Exercise Respond 2024 took place in perfect weather on 20 October at Prospect Hill. Thanks to the generosity of Prospect Hill Scouts, we based SAVEM Command in the Scouts’ hall, which was an ideal location. This year we changed the program to include walk only, drive only “patrol speed” and walk/drive combo taskings. This gave teams the opportunity to DI (Daily Inspect) their vehicles and navigate to various locations. Toy animal targets included scenarios involving native animals and birds, livestock and domestic pets. After a SMEAC briefing by the Commander, volunteers broke into their allocated teams under the direction of a team leader, with senior members of the SAVEM Training Team facilitating.
The teams settled into their roles quickly according to the “org charts” developed as part of their Action Plans, and some new team leaders were able to be mentored by experienced volunteers. Radio transmissions reflected the Radio Comms training received only two weeks earlier, which was very beneficial – it’s all about practice!
We were pleased to welcome two Forestry SA Rangers who called in to visit – having found some of our “patients” in the forest. It’s always good to be able to build collaborative relationships with other agencies, especially those we are likely to work with in an Activation.
Exercise Respond 2024 fulfilled its objectives. We are planning an expanded Exercise Respond in 2025 where we hope our Mobile Care Centre will be in use for the first time. Many thanks to all who attended and contributed, and special thanks to the SAVEM Training Team for their diligent work preparing for the day.
(Photos: Steve Selwood, Rachel Westcott and Jana Wurriehausen)
