The NSW State Emergency Management Committee (SEMC) first established a Working Group in 2007 to develop an evacuation framework in the event of significant natural disaster. In March 2012, an evacuation order was issued for the communities of Hay and Maude (2500 residents) due to predicted flooding which would exceed the levee height. Given the limited and available accommodation options, a decision was taken to establish a Major Evacuation Centre in Deniliquin using temporary infrastructure. This was further influenced by a number of factors such as road access, adjacent townships already subjected to evacuation and utility failures.

State level personnel based in Sydney facilitated various aspects of this operation in close co-operation with local authorities. The temporary facility was established within 48 hours at the local showground and was managed by experienced staff. Many Government and non government agencies contributed resources and personnel including the NSW Rural Fire Service and Deniliquin Shire Council who supplied significant logistical support.

405 people were registered and 106 animals accommodated over the ten day period with some 3500 meals served. A vast number of services were provided on site including public health, transport and personal support. This was the first time such a centre had been established in NSW and forced emergency managers at all levels to think outside normal practices. The nature in which this centre was established has since been recognised as best practice by a number of jurisdictions.

 As a result of the 2011/12 floods, it was agreed by SEMC members that evacuation guidelines were needed to assist local and regional Emergency Management Committees alike.

This presentation will outline the Deniliquin experience; discuss key lessons learnt and the journey in developing the State Evacuation Management Policy.