Crash team takes on state’s best

By Tania Martin
THE stage is set for the Emerald SES road crash rescue team to take on the best-of-the-best at the state championships.
Team leader Myles O’Reilly said preparing for the championships was similar to rehearsing for a play.
He said a lot of the training involved getting the choreography right.
“We (Emerald) already have a lot of experience in road crash rescue and know all the techniques,” Mr O’Reilly said.
“For us, it’s about making sure everyone is in the right place at the right time for each scenario.”
The State Road Rescue Challenge involves teams taking part in three crash scenarios.
Mr O’Reilly said each challenge is harder as the time is reduced but the job is the same.
The three scenarios run for 15, 20 and 25 minutes.
But, Mr O’Reilly said, the teams still needed to assess the scene, make sure it’s safe and then enact the play within the different time frames.
“In reality we will be doing all the things that happen in real-life at a crash, but we have to address them like a play … it’s like following a script,” he said.
The six-member crew is now putting the final touches on its script before putting in some last-minute rehearsals.
Mr O’Reilly said Emerald was playing to win.
He said the team would not be happy with second best but, the challenge was also a great chance to learn some new techniques for real-life crashes.
“There is no point going in for second place,” he said.
“But in the same token if we don’t win, it will be a valuable lesson for the crew.”
The state challenge will be held on 6 and 7 December at the Hoecker Pavilion at the Melbourne Showgrounds.
“It’s a great chance for our team to compete against others from across the state using the latest rescue gear and new model cars,” Mr O’Reilly said.
If Emerald wins at the state championships, it will go on to compete at the nationals next year.