Port Authority to conduct annual emergency exercise at Port Kembla

Port Kembla together with State emergency responders and port operators, exercising our capabilities and emergency response protocols.

Harbour Master Port Kembla & South Coast Sharad Bhasin said the exercise involves a simulated emergency at the grain berth within the operational area of the Port Kembla facility.

“Port Authority conducts annual training exercises at our major ports to systematically test our emergency response measures, making sure we are well prepared to protect people and the marine environment in the event of an emergency in port waters,” said Mr Bhasin.

“While there will be lots of action around Port Kembla tomorrow, there’s no need for alarm! Practise makes perfect.

“NSW Ports will play a pivotal role in this exercise, as well NSW Fire & Rescue, NSW Ambulance, Environment Protection Authority, GrainCorp, Svitzer, to name a few who will all take part.

“Other agencies and stakeholders will also be present as observers, watching the full-scale staged demonstration as it unfolds.”

NSW Ports CEO Marika Calfas said emergency exercises were an excellent way in which to test plans and procedures and ensure they remain current and effective.

“Port Kembla is a major economic driver for the Illawarra – contributing $2.9 billion to the NSW economy each year and supporting about 10,000 jobs,” she said.

“These annual drills allow all port operators and emergency services to work closely with one another and to strengthen skills and responses, so in the event of any potential incident, everyone is as prepared as possible to respond swiftly.”

The exercise will commence at approximately 8.30am and is expected to finish about 1pm.

Regular public access areas within the Port Kembla precinct will remain open during the exercise.

MEDIA CONTACT: 02 9296 4672