EMERGENCY SERVICES READY FOR INDY

The focus of the crowds at this week’s Indy on the Gold Coast might be on the on- and off-track action, but a massive behind-the-scenes planning effort is going into ensuring the safety of everyone at the event.

Emergency Services Minister Pat Purcell said that the Department of Emergency Services was currently finalising its preparations for Indy, which runs from October 19 to 22.

“Staff and volunteers of the Queensland Ambulance Service, the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service and Emergency Management Queensland, including the State Emergency Service, are involved in the lead-up and during the event,” Mr Purcell said.

“A record crowd of nearly 320,000 spectators attended last year’s Indy, and another huge crowd is expected this year.

“To ensure the safety of everyone attending, a massive planning and logistical operation takes place behind the scenes.

“Emergency services staff and volunteers will work closely with the Queensland Police Service to provide a coordinated and controlled response to any incidents that occur within the Indy precinct.

“Senior Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) staffers have been working with key stakeholders to ensure the required level of fire safety is achieved.

“All commercial residential buildings within the Indy precinct will have been inspected by October 19 to ensure their fire systems are maintained.

“Extra QFRS staff will be rostered on whenever the track is closed to general traffic, and the QFRS will deploy an additional officer to the Indy race command building to coordinate the safe deployment of resources in the event of a fire.

”In addition, the Gold Coast District Disaster Management Group, which is coordinated by Emergency Management Queensland, will monitor the event and be ready to activate in the event of a potential disaster.

“The Queensland Ambulance service will establish a dedicated communications centre at Indy.

“Paramedics will be present each day to treat spectators and race drivers should they require medical assistance.

“Paramedics will be roving throughout the precinct and be stationed at eight strategically positioned first-aid tents.

“State Emergency Service volunteers are also preparing for Indy and each day volunteers will be assisting paramedics with first-aid cases."

Staff and volunteers in the Department of Emergency Services’ south-eastern region handle several major events each year such as Indy, Schoolies and the Big Day Out, Mr Purcell said.

“I would like to thank these personnel for their ongoing commitment and dedication to the safety of people attending these events.”

Media contacts: Tim Shipstone 07 3247 8194, 0409 620 571;
Daniel Landon 07 3247 8992, 0437 837 976.