The 13th QMRS Memorial Cup competition was held at Grosvenor Mine in early May. I had the unfamiliar role of being involved with the host mine and coordinating assistance to QMRS and the District Assessors in preparations for the competition. These events involve a significant team effort so that we can provide team members with a realistic test of their skills and knowledge in a safe environment. I would like to take the opportunity to personally thank all those personnel who helped out and assisted in any way and to all team members who were involved either as competitors or assistants.
It is extremely important we also use these events to form and renew our mines rescue friendships as we never know when we may be working together in a time of crisis. The spirit and camaraderie of rescue personnel was displayed at this competition with the successful North Goonyella team including a borrowed team member from Moranbah North. It is a rare feat to be involved in the first and second placed teams at a competition. I am sure Cain is still reminding the Moranbah North team of this! A special mention also to the Barbarians team comprising team members from multiple mines who put their hands up to compete with minimal additional training. Hopefully learnings from this and other competitions are passed on to all team members through our scheduled training rounds during the year.
Also in May was our second Board of Directors meeting for 2017. We held a session with the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) prior to the board meeting. As there have been several changes in personnel in recent years this was an opportunity to formally acknowledge our roles and promote discussion on ways to be “better than before”.
The 2017-2018 financial year budget was reviewed by the Board. There is always a fair amount of discussion and explanation with regards to approving the budget to ensure we are operating in a financially responsible and prudent manner. We must continue to evolve, work with, and listen to the industry we serve and ensure we are well prepared to respond to an emergency should it arise.
Yours in Rescue
Shaun