HUET Training for Marine Rescue Broken Bay

ON 28 November Marine Rescue Broken Bay sent a delegation of trainees to the Helicopter Underwater Egress Training centre run by Toll at Bankstown Airport.

The day was challenging, fun and engaging. Marine Rescue attendees distinguished themselves with enthusiasm and demonstration of our skills and experience on the water. The highlight for most was being winched up by Toll’s Amanda Carroll, who was our paramedic/operator. She harnessed each attendee and pulled them towards the ‘helicopter’, 10 meters skyward in rain, wind and thunder. Admittedly this was simulated but was still stinging to the eyes and cold on the skin, discombobulating due to the wave generator – all ensuring that our decisions were made and tested in the most challenging of conditions.

Afterwards a debrief was conducted by the head trainer Kris Lim, and the discussion showed the team had absorbed both the lessons intended and learned the risks of ocean-based rescue, providing a nuanced and informed feedback to the Toll team. Kris should be commended for his entertaining yet informative style – backed by clear hard-won experience. He really delivered a great end-to-end training outcome for all of us. It was no surprise to find out that he was also an active member of Marine Rescue – we pop up everywhere!

Special thanks to Pittwater RSL and MR BB executive for enabling this event for our team – all participants will take these learnings into active duty on future Broken Bay watches.