First responders preparing for next disaster response [1]
Tuesday, October 10, 2023 - 17:04
Disaster response requires effective coordination and communication, the participants in Exercise Longreach were told this week. More than 70 representatives from first responder agencies in Tonga are meeting in an ongoing collaboration between the Australian Defence Force (ADF), the National Disaster Risk Management Office (formerly NEMO) and His Majesty's Armed Forces, in an exercise to make sure all systems are in place for the next disaster response whenever it may strike in Tonga.
This intensive training is taking place from October 10 to 12 at the Fa'onelua Convention Centre, Nuku’alofa, Tonga, and has been designed to enhance inter-operability and preparedness between the agencies.
Sione ‘Akauola, CEO for MEIDECC, Tonga said that Exercise Longreach offers an opportunity to improve knowledge on disaster risk management processes and refine the coordination approaches necessary to respond effectively and efficiently to future disasters. He urged participants to embrace a culture of continuous learning and be prepared for the known and unknown challenges, particularly in light of the upcoming cyclone season and the recent declaration of an El Niño alert.
Lord Vaea, Minister for Internal Affairs and Acting Minister Responsible for His Majesty’s Armed Forces; Tonga Police and Tonga Fire and Emergency Services in his welcome remarks emphasised the need to strengthen shared relationships, adopt better communication strategies, and improve approaches to mobilise timely disaster relief to the most vulnerable.
“We must tailor our systems and approaches to address the context specific challenges we encounter on a day-to-day basis. ...As agents of change, we must be confident with the approaches we are promoting to building resilient communities.”
Australia’s High Commissioner to Tonga, HE Ms. Rachael Moore reflected on the recent experiences from the triple-pronged disaster, the volcanic eruption, tsunami, and COVID-19. “Exercise Longreach is an opportunity to ensure all the systems are in place for Tonga to lead its people through the next disaster response, whenever it may strike”.
During the three-day training, sessions will be targeted to enhance the operationality of the new DRM Act and Policy, with the view of strengthening existing governance arrangements to support coordination and response efforts.
Chief Superintendent of the Tonga Police, Mr. ‘Atunaisa Taumoepeau expressed his thanks to all the partners for making this training possible and underscored the importance of sharing the commitment to building a resilient Tonga.
“The welfare and safety of Tongan communities is all our responsibility and dedication and commitment to them can be fulfilled through collaboration,” he said.