In September the City of Swan, in partnership with Disaster Relief Australia (DRA), ran a Big Map disaster planning exercise for residents in Bullsbrook.
A giant 10m by 12m map of the Swan region was rolled out at Pickett Park Hall, taking up almost the entire available floor space of the large room and making it easy for community members to identify their own properties and significant community locations.
Through discussions and brainstorming, community members were able to identify risks and potential disasters, share experiences and discuss ways to better prepare and respond.
DRA staff offered their specialised disaster relief experience and shared how they support the community during natural disasters.
The Big Map exercise is inspired by military wargame theory which helps participants recognise potential threats and opportunities on the battlefield.
Created using geographic information system (GIS) technology, the map serves as an excellent device for planning and strategising for emergencies.
Tanya Richardson, City of Swan Mayor, said the Big Map exercise builds community resilience in a unique and interactive way.
“Resources like the Big Map give our residents valuable insights into planning and preparing for disasters,” she said.
“As a City, it is important we plan for emergencies with a clear strategy to keep our community safe.
“What is fantastic about this Disaster Relief Australia workshop is that our community can actively contribute to this strategy and have a say in planning for disasters.”
Shari Bent, DRA Resilience Manager said the Big Map exercise is a reminder that natural disasters can happen at any time and we all need to be prepared.
“Weather events continue to increase in severity and frequency and communities now more than ever need to understand the possible risks and hazards ahead,” she said.
“Walking the Big Map is a unique way to explore where you live and gain new perspectives on these threats to your communities.
“Once communities understand these risks and hazards, they can work together to identify ways to mitigate risk and better prepare for the future.”
Learn more about the Big Map exercise or view upcoming Big Map events here.
Interested in becoming a DRA volunteer? Sign up.
A giant 10m by 12m map of the Swan region was rolled out at Pickett Park Hall, taking up almost the entire available floor space of the large room and making it easy for community members to identify their own properties and significant community locations.
Through discussions and brainstorming, community members were able to identify risks and potential disasters, share experiences and discuss ways to better prepare and respond.
DRA staff offered their specialised disaster relief experience and shared how they support the community during natural disasters.
The Big Map exercise is inspired by military wargame theory which helps participants recognise potential threats and opportunities on the battlefield.
Created using geographic information system (GIS) technology, the map serves as an excellent device for planning and strategising for emergencies.
Tanya Richardson, City of Swan Mayor, said the Big Map exercise builds community resilience in a unique and interactive way.
“Resources like the Big Map give our residents valuable insights into planning and preparing for disasters,” she said.
“As a City, it is important we plan for emergencies with a clear strategy to keep our community safe.
“What is fantastic about this Disaster Relief Australia workshop is that our community can actively contribute to this strategy and have a say in planning for disasters.”
Shari Bent, DRA Resilience Manager said the Big Map exercise is a reminder that natural disasters can happen at any time and we all need to be prepared.
“Weather events continue to increase in severity and frequency and communities now more than ever need to understand the possible risks and hazards ahead,” she said.
“Walking the Big Map is a unique way to explore where you live and gain new perspectives on these threats to your communities.
“Once communities understand these risks and hazards, they can work together to identify ways to mitigate risk and better prepare for the future.”
Learn more about the Big Map exercise or view upcoming Big Map events here.
Interested in becoming a DRA volunteer? Sign up.