In recognition of our local talent and experience, Surf Life Saving Australia has announced Tasmania will be the location of their National Centre of Excellence for Flood, Swift Water and Rescue, and for a masterclass program for Australia.
Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Management, Felix Ellis, said Surf Life Saving Tasmania (SLST) is nationally and internationally recognised for its proficiency and excellence in responding to swift water and flood environments.
"SLST is an important flood response agency in Tasmania and works closely with the State Emergency Service and Tasmania Police to rescue Tasmanians from swift flood waters," he said.
"SLST has been actively involved in emergency events in Tasmania for some time, including the 2016, 2018 and 2022 flood events.
"Since 2016, SLST has worked closely with our emergency services to improve Tasmania's resilience and preparedness for flood events, and we saw the success of these partnerships during the October 2022 flood events that swept through the North and North West of Tasmania.
"Having Tasmania as the location of the SLSA's Centre of Excellence for Flood, Swift Water and Rescue recognises that the talents of SLST are highly sought after by other Australian jurisdictions as well as other countries.
"As a volunteer organisation, SLST has worked hard to keep Tasmanians safe and I congratulate them on their achievements and for this recognition."
