MECC Launch a Success

The Datalink built MECC Portal underwent simulated tests in its launch at Alpine Shire Council this month.

In attendance were a large number of agencies including the Alpine Shire Council, Alpine Health, Ambulance services, Country Fire Authority (CFA),Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE), Police, Red Cross,State Emergency Service (SES) as well as a number of spectators including representatives of the Municipal Association of Victoria.

After an introductory session, the MECC was put through its paces with a simulated event.  Participants were not given the details of the scenario until the session. 

However the simulated flood was efficiently dealt with using the MECC Portal as a communication tool.

The feedback in general was very positive.  Although some expressed concerns over technology being a replacement for communication, the consensus was that as a technology tool the MECC Portal was very helpful in streamlining the process of emergency coordination. 

Most of the participants also felt confident that they would be able to easily use the portal in the event that the MECC opened for the upcoming bushfire season or some other similar event.

As a result of the successful launch, Alpine Shire and Datalink have teamed agreed to refine the MECC to  produce a product with the view of being used by wider range of local councils.  This includes the implementation of several new features which were identified during the live scenario which will be built into the software over the coming months.