Disaster Search & Rescue

The Hunter Wildlife Rescue (NATF) Disaster Relief Team operates search and rescue of distressed and injured wildlife after natural and man-made disasters including bushfires, storms and floods, oil spills or  heat stress events.

Members will be alerted to a potential natural disaster and to be on standby. Activation of the Hunter Wildlife Rescue (NATF) Disaster Search and Rescue Unit in in line with Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Emergency Animal Service Plan.  The Disaster Relief Team works alongside DPI;  State Emergency Services (SES);  Rural Fire Services (RFS);  National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS);  Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA);  Energy Australia;  Local Councils;  Rangers.

When DPI informs the Disaster Coordinator that the area is safe, the Disaster Communications Officer will call for volunteers from the membership to participate wildlife disaster relief including:

1.   Field search and rescue
2.  Transportation of injured wildlife to vets and approved rehabilitators
3.  Allied support ie  general assistance setting up base; picking up water and food supplies; making lunches for search and rescue volunteers and delivering to field base.
4.  Administration support and donation coordination.

DISASTER SEARCH & RESCUE ALERTS

Members will be alerted to a potential natural disaster and to be on standby. When DPI informs the Disaster Coordinator that the area is safe, the Disaster Communications Officer will call for volunteers to participate in search and rescue.

Volunteers will be required to complete the Disaster Volunteers ID Form and follow the Disaster Response Protocols (30 downloads) Type of support required

1.   Field search and rescue

2.  Transportation of injured wildlife to vets and approved rehabilitators

3.  Allied support ie  general assistance setting up base; picking up water and food supplies; making lunches for search and rescue volunteers and delivering to field base.

4.  Administration support and donation coordination.

Related Protocols: NATF disaster protocol Disaster Protocols for Disaster Events in Flying-Fox Colonies (20 downloads)