Port Stephens, Dungog and Maitland join forces for Emergency Management and Community Resilience Expo

COLLABORATION between the Port Stephens, Maitland and Dungog councils will bring emergency services together to teach residents how to prepare for floods, fires, storms, and other disasters.

The Emergency Management and Community Resilience Expo will take place at the Maitland Showgrounds, with more than 25 emergency services and government organisations in attendance, including NSW Police, NSW Ambulance, Rural Fire Services, State Emergency Services and Marine Rescue.

Visitors will be encouraged to take part in family friendly activities, live demonstrations and live question-and-answer sessions to learn about emergency management procedures and preparations.

Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson highlighted the importance of sharing resources between communities.

“Emergencies don’t stop at local government borders,” she said.

“This Expo will make it easier for our residents to have the practical tools, expert knowledge, and emergency connections they need to protect their families and properties before disaster strikes.
“We encourage all of our residents to come along to the Maitland Showground, enjoy the free entertainment, and tap into the wealth of knowledge provided by our government and emergency services.”

Dungog Shire Mayor Digby Rayward also said that the Expo was a valuable way for residents to connect with emergency services and learn more about how they can prepare.

“This expo brings the people who know emergency preparedness and response best together in one place,” Mr Rayward said.

“It gives shire residents the chance to ask questions, better understand their local risks and pick up practical advice they can take home and put into action.”

The Emergency Management and Community Resilience Expo will be free for anyone to attend on 14 November from 9am to 2pm, with live entertainment and food available.

By Nico LOMBARDO