STAR Operations members and a Bomb Response Unit member (opposite page) prepare for the exercise at Plympton. Photos: SAPOL Photographic Section.
his demands and ultimately the authorisation of a ‘deliberate action’ enabling STAR Operations to storm the stronghold and use deadly force against the terrorist, practically applying new powers afforded to SAPOL by the Terrorism (Police Powers) (Use of Force) Amendment Act 2018, introduced only two weeks earlier. “Public information during a terrorist incident was also tested, particularly managing social media in addition to providing safety advice and reassurance to the community.” The exercise strengthened SAPOL’s relationship with
the venue’s operator, Adelaide Venue Management Corporation (AVMC), which also runs Coopers Stadium at Hindmarsh and the Adelaide Convention Centre. “By offering AEC as a training setting, AVMC were able to test their own emergency plans. This provided valuable learnings which they can apply across other venues to enhance staff and patron safety,” Inspector Mazik said. Exercise Neighbour 18 brought capability experts from other jurisdictions who were tasked with evaluating response performance. “The vastly experienced
evaluators provided mentoring, support and guidance, contributing to identifying best practice along with exploring contingencies to suit extraordinary challenges and circumstances,” Inspector Mazik said. The three-day activity allowed SAPOL to trial and assess its recently announced rapid response capability, with the final model still under development. Additionally, SAPOL’s Forensic Response Section and the State Coroner’s Office were able to practice the full disaster victim identification and reconciliation process for the
first time. Exercise Neighbour will wrap-up in March after a post-incident workshop, exercise validation and resolution process. This culminates with a Resolution Action Plan being submitted to the ANZCTC for progression. “Practicing our plans and processes in a safe environment has identified potential gaps, challenges and opportunities for improvement, but also ensures we are all best prepared for a real event,” Inspector Mazik said.
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