Joint Emergency Management and Community Resilience Expo to showcase emergency preparedness across the Hunter Region

Port Stephen

Hunter residents are invited to attend the joint Dungog, Maitland & Port Stephens Emergency Management & Community Resilience Expo on Saturday, 14 November at the Maitland Showground.

The community is encouraged to attend this free event with live entertainment and food from 9am to 2pm and learn from the emergency supporting services and government agencies who actively prepare and protect local communities before, during and after emergencies.

The Expo will feature practical displays, live demonstrations and interactive activities designed to give residents a clear understanding of emergency management procedures and encourage preparedness when it comes to natural hazards including bushfires, floods and storms.

Visitors will have the chance to connect with emergency responders including NSW Police, Rural Fire Services (RFS), State Emergency Services (SES) and other agencies that support community during emergencies. The community is encouraged to ask questions and receive practical steps they can take to keep themselves, their families and properties safe.

Maitland Mayor Philip Penfold says preparing for emergencies is a shared responsibility between community, all levels of government and supporting agencies.

“Council is the closest level of government support to our community in times of disasters. This Expo brings together a unique opportunity for residents to understand and engage with the people, resources and systems that support them during emergencies and keep our communities safe.”

“We want our residents to feel informed, connected and confident in the services that are always here to help when needed most,” said Mayor Penfold.

Dungog Shire Mayor Digby Rayward said the Expo is a valuable way for residents to connect with emergency services and learn more about how they can prepare before disaster strikes.

In Dungog Shire, we know firsthand how quickly bushfires, floods and severe storms can impact our communities, and how important it is to be prepared before an emergency happens.”

“This Expo brings the people who know emergency preparedness and response best together in one place, giving residents the chance to ask questions, better understand their local risks and pick up practical advice they can take home and put into action.”

Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson said Port Stephens is proud to partner with neighbouring councils for this event.

“Emergencies don’t stop at local government borders. This Expo will make it easier for our residents to have the practical tools, expert knowledge, and emergency connections they need to protect their families and properties before disaster strikes,” Mayor Anderson said.

“We encourage all of our residents to come along to the Maitland Showground, enjoy the free entertainment, and tap into the wealth of knowledge provided by our government and emergency services,” Mayor Anderson added.

This event reflects the ongoing commitment of the Dungog, Maitland and Port Stephens local government areas to building informed, connected and resilient communities.

Community members of all ages are encouraged to attend and learn more about emergency

preparedness and the organisations that support local communities when it matters most.

/Public Release. View in full here.