IN TIMES of disaster emergencies, the Qld Fire Department will now be able to deploy from RAAF base at Amberley.

To make this possible, the Department and the RAAF joined forces to certify the QFD Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART).

Every year the RAAF have simulated Queensland Fire Department activity where real-world humanitarian missions are deployed from a Defence embarkation point.

The activity is supported by 23 Squadron Air Movements Section.

Air Movements Section lead Sergeant Jacquelyn Nelson said the exercise highlighted the importance of familiarisation and shared practices among key response agencies.

“It is always an honour to provide assistance and support to DART in their training,” Sgt Nelson said.

“We come together in sometimes tough and high-pressure circumstances and this training opportunity ensures that when both Air Movements and the Disaster Assistance Response Team are called forward for a disaster or humanitarian relief operation, we work together flawlessly, safely and meet our objectives.”

DART member Superintendent Graeme Hall said working with teams from the RAAF meant being able to hit the ground running whenever they were needed.

The RAAF and QFD work together in support of disaster relief, humanitarian assistance missions and regional emergency responses across Queensland.

Joint preparation exercises ensure the military and civilian responders are ready to work together in times of need.