• Ninth annual MERC to be held at Langley Park from November 22-24
  • Free event open to the public to watch emergency service volunteers in action
  • Bushfire Games a new addition this year

The ninth Mining Emergency Response Competition (MERC) begins today and runs until Sunday November 24 at Langley Park in Perth.

More than 20 teams from across Western Australia, and one from Indonesia, will have their skills tested as they respond with the latest emergency vehicles and equipment to simulated emergency scenarios – complete with real flames, obstacles and “casualties”.

The teams will respond to seven realistic scenarios designed to test their skills including: first aid, hazardous materials, confided space rescue, vertical rescue, road crash rescue, team readiness and firefighting.

For the first time this year, MERC has partnered with WA’s Association of Volunteer Bush Fire Brigades who will simultaneously run the Bushfire Games on the adjacent event field.

The family-friendly event will provide an opportunity for Western Australians to witness some of the incredible skills performed on behalf of the tens of thousands of mining emergency response and bushfire volunteers. For more information, visit https://www.themerc.com.au

Comments attributed to Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston:

“The McGowan Government is proud to support the Mining Emergency Response Competition because safety is one of our highest priorities.

“I’d like to thank all the event organisers, volunteers, mining companies and teams for making this event such a success and committing to worker safety.

“It’s terrific that proceeds raised by competing teams and sponsors will be donated to local charities.”

Comments attributed to Emergency Services Minister Francis Logan:

“It’s pleasing to see bushfire brigade volunteers in this year’s competition for the first time because it gives people a great opportunity to see how well our volunteers keep their communities safe.

“Many of our bushfire volunteers have decades of experience and have been involved in significant emergency situations that have required the highest level of skill and bushfire management.

“I wish all the competitors all the best and I hope they enjoy the day.”