Recognition for Emergency Operations Centre staff
The efforts of more than 60 people who staffed Wairarapa’s Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) during the COVID-19 response were recognised at the Carterton Events Centre today (Thursday, 30 July).
The EOC was the first to be activated in the Wellington region, and one of the first nationally, after a case of community transmission was confirmed in Carterton.
It involved staff from the three district councils, Greater Wellington Regional Council (GWRC), and the Wellington Region Emergency Management Office.
The EOC’s role was to support the Ministry of Health, as the lead agency, coordinating welfare services for people directly impacted, working with emergency services, and delivering public communication.
EOC Local Controller David Hopman said it was appropriate to recognise what was an extraordinary effort by staff involved.
“The EOC was activated for 69 days – far longer than it would normally be operating for a civil defence emergency caused by the likes of a weather event.
“In the early days of the Level 4 lockdown, in particular, this was a very intense environment. We were planning for widespread infections and-worst case scenarios, which was very stressful at times and meant some long days - it wasn’t easy.
“What we want to do is acknowledge the efforts of everybody involved in getting through to this stage.
“Obviously the response to COVID-19 is continuing at a national level, and we continue to monitor the situation locally, but it is a good time to look back on what was achieved.”
The EOC was activated on 22 March and deactivated on 29 May.
Poll: Does the building consent process need to change?
We definitely need homes that are fit to live in but there are often frustrations when it comes to getting consent to modify your own home.
Do you think changes need made to the current process for building consent? Share your thoughts below.
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91.5% Yes
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8.1% No
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0.3% Other - I'll share below!
Lest we forget...
On this ANZAC Day, let's take a moment to remember and honor the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our country.
Tell us who are you honouring today. Whether it's a story from the battlefield or a memory of a family member who fought in the war, we'd love you to share your stories below.
Roger Hall's latest play at Circa Theatre
Roger Hall is back! With his latest comedy, End of Summer Time.
Experience Sir Roger Hall's End of Summer Time, the third instalment of the lovable character Dickie Hart, starring Gavin Rutherford.
Dickie Hart is told by wife Glenda they have to move from Wellington to Auckland. How will Dickie cope with apartment living, meeting new people, Covid lockdown, getting a new driver's licence…and possibly even having to support The Blues?
"Once again, clever Sir Roger Hall strikes comedy gold…End of Summer Time is a great night out. Don’t miss it!”
- Ross Jolly, Director.
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