RESPONSE NETWORK

Calling all biosecurity champions: let’s get prepared!  

Imagine we find ourselves dealing with a nasty invasion of fruit flies or brown marmorated stink bugs… would you be keen to help stop their spread?  COVID-19 has demonstrated more than ever the importance of preparation. That’s why Tauranga Moana Biosecurity Capital (TMBC) are joining forces with Biosecurity New Zealand to build our regional capability in preparation for any future biosecurity incursions. We are creating a matrix of interested people who will be trained to help protect our region by supporting Biosecurity New Zealand-led responses.It’s not just technical experts, everyone has a role to play in a response from coordinating logistics and operations through to assisting in welfare and communications.

Why should I join?

You’ll be joining a team of passionate locals who are keen to learn about how New Zealand agencies and organisations coordinate, command and control responses of any scale using the Coordinated Incident Management System (CIMS).   This is about being in a position to contribute our local knowledge and skills, to protect what we love about life in the Bay of Plenty. It’s also about recognising our collective commitment and preparedness to deal with any biosecurity challenges that we might face.

What’s required?

  • Complete the following questionnaire (5-10 minutes) to register: CLICK HERE
  • Share this email with your colleagues and encourage them to get involved.
  • You don’t need any specific biosecurity related experience – this is all about building our capability and using all the valuable skills that you already have.
  • If you’re a member of KiwiNet, you’re welcome to take part in this training as a refresher.  KiwiNet will continue to be the first point of call for the kiwifruit industry.

What’s next?

We’ll be working with Biosecurity New Zealand to develop a training plan so that as many of us as possible are prepared and ready to hit the ground running, should we need to deal with any unwanted pests or diseases.   Once we’ve created the matrix of interested people, we’ll get back in touch to let you know about training opportunities.