Mt Thorley Warkworth Triumphs at Hunter Valley Open Cut competition

Ten emergency response teams from across the region competed at the annual Hunter Valley Open Cut Mines Rescue competition on Friday, 13 September 2024.

The day’s format included several simulation exercises to demonstrate knowledge and the use of equipment in realistic scenarios, including exercises to test hazard awareness, vertical rescue, first aid and firefighting. The teams worked through a series of situations to test their emergency response capabilities, teamwork and communication skills in a high-pressure environment. The events were designed to simulate situations teams would most likely face should they be called to respond to a real-life incident.

The Mt Thorley Warkworth team were named overall winners at a presentation dinner following the event. Team captain, Morgan Creagh, praised the efforts of the team;

‘This win has been a long time coming, having first started in Mines Rescue competitions back in 2011. With the build-up leading into the competition, we knew we were working towards something big. We treated this like our grand final, and even with three new team members, we stayed focused, kept it simple, and worked together as a tight unit. One of my main goals was to complete every scenario and achieving that makes this victory all the more special.

Thank you to my Vice Captain, Scott Tuckerman, and our Yancoal Team Manager, Darren Parnell, for supporting us throughout the year to attend training sessions and for the support shown during this event.’

The primary purpose of Mines Rescue is to provide emergency response to the industry in the case of an emergency. Events like these allow emergency responders to test and hone their skills under pressure so they are ready to respond in the event of an incident on site.

Matt Enright, Regional Manager of Hunter Valley Mines Rescue, said that it was great to witness both the incredibly honed skills, but also the camaraderie of the teams.

‘These competitions offer a valuable opportunity for teams to put their training into practice and strengthen their expertise. Our open cut competitions require all entrants to work cohesively and demonstrate aptitude with a diverse range of technical skills – from confined spaces rescue to vehicle extractions.

From what we have seen today, from all those competing, the industry can take great confidence in the capabilities demonstrated by these ten teams.’

Teams competing on the day included:

• Bengalla
• Bulga
• Hunter Valley Operations
• Mangoola
• Mt Arthur North
• Mt Owen Glendell Operations
• Mt Pleasant
• Mt Thorley Warkworth
• Ravensworth
• United Wambo Joint Venture