When disaster strikes, our preparation makes all the difference.
Recently, we were proud to take part in a large-scale Evacuation Centre training exercise on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Local volunteers, alongside members of our specialist Emergency Response Team, joined forces with government and other agencies to simulate the setup and operation of an Evacuation Centre during a bushfire emergency.
Designed to test large-scale emergency response capability, the exercise focused on interagency coordination, communication and command structures under realistic, scenario-based conditions. From managing displaced residents to responding to simulated injuries, the day provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen community resilience.
An important part of the exercise was St John’s treatment triage and medical centre alongside NSW Health. Our volunteers demonstrated clinical expertise and calm leadership under pressure. We conducted patient assessments, delivering care and coordination with other agencies and demonstrated the capability we bring to real-life emergencies.
The event was run by the NSW Department of Communities and Justice, involving NSW State Emergency Service, NSW Police Force, Fire and Rescue NSW, NSW Health and other non-government agencies. Exercises like this strengthen relationships and collaboration when real deployments happen: clarifying roles, improving communication pathways and identifying opportunities for continuous improvement.
The professionalism of our volunteers did not go unnoticed, with NSW Health team members acknowledging the high standard of care and coordination demonstrated throughout the day.
Following the exercise, a structured debrief process will help refine procedures and enhance preparedness. Our members provided reflections and feedback for how the health centre ran and provided valuable insight on the processes of triage and patient care within evacuation centre environments.
We were grateful for this opportunity to showcase the capability and value that St John NSW has and continues to bring to emergency response. By investing in training today, St John NSW reinforces public confidence in emergency services and our commitment to being always here to help.
