Community open day—Thursday Island

Tuesday 15 May 2018
We are holding a community open day on Thursday Island from 11 am to 2 pm on Saturday 19 May in ANZAC Park.
Thursday Island

Locals can get a closer look at some of the equipment used during an oil spill clean-up, enjoy a free barbeque, and there will be fun, educational activities for kids.

The open day will provide an opportunity for community members to learn more about what happens in the event of an oil spill, the equipment used, and how we protect the marine environment.

In the week leading up to the open day, AMSA will be conducting a training exercise simulating a major oil spill from a ship in the Torres Strait.

AMSA Manager of Crisis Preparedness and Response, Jamie Storrie, said the exercise would provide oil spill responders with an opportunity to exchange knowledge with local communities and traditional owners.

'We share a common goal to protect their unique ecosystems and livelihoods and want to learn how we can work in partnership to support the Torres Strait communities should the unthinkable occur,' Mr Storrie said.

AMSA takes a leading role in conducting training exercises around Australia each year with experienced oil spill responders from other partner agencies. Given the unique and complex eco-system of the Torres Strait, being prepared is essential for an effective response to pollution or potential pollution from ships.

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