McGowan Government congratulates MERC winners

• Northern Star Jundee win Mining Emergency Response Competition 

The McGowan Government has congratulated Northern Star Jundee for winning the Mining Emergency Response Competition (MERC) over the weekend.  

MERC participants, volunteers, sponsors and Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston celebrated the winners, of the seventh annual event, at a gala dinner in Perth last night. 

A total of 15 Western Australian teams showcased their expert response skills in real-life emergency situations including firefighting, road crashes, vertical and confined space rescue, and handling hazardous materials.

MERC in partnership with Holyoake, raised almost $60,000 at this year's event. The funds will go towards developing a wellness app, My Wellbeing Mate. 

Other category winners included:

• Road Crash - Synergy Muja Power;
• Hazardous Materials - Synergy Muja Power;
• Vertical Rescue - FMG Cloudbreak;
• Fire Fighting - Rio Iron Ore Coastal;
• Confined Space - Northern Star Jundee;
• First Aid - Northern Star Jundee;
• Emergency Response Team - Anglo Ashanti (Sunrise Dam);
• Best Captain - Northern Star Jundee;
• Team Safety -  Northern Star Jundee;
• Overall First Aid - Northern Star Jundee;
• Overall Breathing Apparatus - Anglo Ashanti (Sunrise Dam); and
• Outstanding Medic - Sandra Wagner - Northern Star. 

Comments attributed to Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston:

"Safety is one of the McGowan Government's key priorities and I congratulate, not just the winners, but the participants, volunteers and sponsors for continuing this successful event.

"The skills showcased in the competition simulate real-life emergency situations, so teams are honing their techniques and also networking and sharing ideas."

Minister's office - 6552 6700