For the past two years the team has won the competition and last year competed in the World Challenge in Wellington for the first time, where it came second.
Werribee CFA Captain and Ambulance Victoria paramedic Michael Wells said that the Challenge gives volunteers an opportunity to showcase the skills they train so hard to develop.
“It’s great to win the competitions, but the best thing is to bring back what we’ve learnt that will help get people out in a timely manner. Unfortunately we’re regularly cutting people from cars in real life road rescues in Werribee,” Mr Wells said.
“CFA road rescue teams are up there with the best in the world and our success in recent years underlines the fact that we are the best in what we’re trained for. The champs give us a chance to meet colleagues from agencies across the world, share our knowledge and exchange experience and methods.
“It’s the only time we get to cut up brand new cars and learn about the latest techniques and equipment. What we learn at the championships we bring back to the brigade and continue improving our incident management skills.”
This year’s team includes Rob Mitchell, Lino Zulia, Adrian Kendall, Michael Wells, Mark Mummery, Phil Menzies and Trevor Weston. While the team’s membership has changed over time, Werribee CFA has been competing in the Challenge for more than 10 years.
During the Challenge, competitors are given a scenario where they have to work against the clock to perform a rescue. The idea is to extricate someone as quickly as possible without causing further harm. Competitors are marked on command and control, technical and medical aspects.
The Road Rescue Challenge demonstrates the best practice in road crash management and provides a forum where various agencies involved in road rescues can learn new techniques and skills. The weekend begins with a learning seminar followed by three days of practical scenario competition and learning workshops. It ends with a trade exhibition showcasing the latest technology in rescue equipment.
The competition runs from 26 to 29 April at Princes Wharf in Hobart in conjunction with Ambulance Tasmania, State Emergency Service and Tasmania Police. More than 300 people are expected to attend as competitors and supporters.
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