The Animal Emergency Incident Management Network (AEIMN) Annual Conference 2023, held on May 5th and 6th at the Emergency Services Academy in NSW, marked a significant gathering of experts and professionals dedicated to advancing animal emergency response and management. With the theme “Not if, but when: preparing for your next animal emergency incident,” the conference aimed to equip attendees with essential knowledge and strategies to effectively tackle the challenges posed by animal-related emergencies. Rachel Granton, representing the National Biosecurity Response Team (NBRT), participated in the conference to share and gain insights pertinent to her critical role.
The Animal Emergency Incident Management Network (AEIMN) Annual Conference 2023, held on May 5th and 6th at the Emergency Services Academy in NSW, marked a significant gathering of experts and professionals dedicated to advancing animal emergency response and management. With the theme “Not if, but when: preparing for your next animal emergency incident,” the conference aimed to equip attendees with essential knowledge and strategies to effectively tackle the challenges posed by animal-related emergencies. Rachel Granton, representing the National Biosecurity Response Team (NBRT), participated in the conference to share and gain insights pertinent to her critical role.
While the conference was predominantly centered on natural disaster and animal rescue management, its implications extended to biosecurity emergencies as well. The expertise shared at the event holds immense value for NBRT members who might be tasked with handling the rescue or movement of large animals during a biosecurity emergency response. For instance, in the event of an exotic animal disease outbreak in remote locations, flood-affected areas, or fire-ravaged zones, understanding the intricacies of such response actions becomes crucial. The conference provided insights into protocols, jurisdictional legislation, resource coordination, and necessary equipment for such responses.
Rachel Granton, as a participant, highlighted the profound impact of the conference on her role within the NBRT and her responsibilities in the Planning Function. She emphasized how exposure to the operational and practical aspects of on-ground emergency management was invaluable. “Opportunities like these also keep me/us contemporary in our biosecurity emergency response management capabilities which is an important skill set to retain.” Says Granton.
Key lessons extracted from the conference encompassed the challenges inherent in dealing with large animals during emergencies, the gravity of animal diseases like Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD), and the critical importance of addressing zoonotic risks. “It was a unique opportunity to be exposed to the difficulties and challenges which a planning officer would face when scheduling and tasking out surveillance and response teams in a response involving large animals” Granton explains.
One of the most valuable aspects of the conference was the opportunity for networking. Attendees engaged with diverse professionals from various emergency-related fields, including biosecurity officers, industry representatives, veterinarians, emergency service personnel, and more. These connections and relationships are invaluable, making emergency response and collaboration significantly smoother.
The AEIMN ANZ Annual Conference 2023 proved to be a useful platform for Rachel Granton and other attendees to enhance their animal emergency response capabilities while also drawing parallels to their roles in biosecurity emergency management. The insights gained, the knowledge shared, and the connections formed during this conference not only empower professionals in their respective roles but also contribute to a more comprehensive and effective approach to emergency management in the ever-evolving landscape of animal and biosecurity incidents.
