Saddle Hill Civil Defence Expo
Preparing the Community

Dunedin (Wednesday 7 November 2012) - The Saddle Hill Community Board is hosting a Civil Defence Expo at the Island Park Golf Club on Thursday 22 November, from 6pm until 7.30pm.

The Expo will provide an opportunity for residents to see what kinds of resources will be available in an emergency, and to think about ways they might be able to contribute. Saddle Hill Community Board Chair Keith McFadyen says the Board felt this proactive approach was essential for its community’s preparedness.

“As we saw in Christchurch, the first response is often from the community itself and we want to give the community a sense of confidence that we, as residents and as the Board, are as prepared as possible.

“The Expo is an opportunity for our community to come together and register their own skills and resources and to find out what services will swing into action should there be an event of this nature.”

Dunedin City Civil Defence Emergency Management, emergency services and community groups will provide information about their services and the Civil Defence communications truck, fire brigade, ambulance and other St John’s equipment will be on display. There will be hot food available for purchase from the Green Island Lions Club and the Golf Club’s bar will be open. The Board is also supplying sweets and drinks for children.

The Board will have the community emergency management plan available and the community will be encouraged to read and contribute to it so it will best meet the Saddle Hill area’s needs.

Mr McFadyen says, “We hope that residents, community leaders and professionals come along to help form the community plan and response to a civil defence emergency.”

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