Back again for their 11th year was the Mining Emergency Response Competition (MERC) –  an annual Perth event that showcases and provides world-class emergency rescue and skill building exercises for volunteer mines rescue teams. 

Held from the 26th to the 28th November at Langley Park, MERC saw volunteer mines rescue teams from all over WA compete in a series of emergency response scenarios, giving the public a unique insight into what they do to protect and save lives every day. 

SETS was thrilled to once again be a bronze sponsor of MERC – hosting our very own mini competitions at the SETS stand, including the return of our world-famous cornhole challenge and a brand-new competition with our mini mining safety quiz! 

For the mini mining safety quiz, participants had to correctly answer their quizzes in less than 3 minutes to go in the draw to win a coveted accessories prize pack (including a  Leatherman Raptor Rescue Folding Trauma Shears, LED Lenser P7R Flashlight and a pair of Eska Ares Gloves) worth $609.95! 

Congratulations to Logan for winning the mini mining safety quiz, and congratulations to Murray for topping the cornhole challenge leaderboard with an impressive 23 points to score a $250 Coles Myer voucher!

And of course, massive congratulations to all the MERC 2021 winners: 

1. Synergy Muja Power-station
2. FMG Chichester
3. Rio Tinto Pilbara Mining Operations

 

But more than just a competition, MERC is also an opportunity for the mining rescue industry to get together, network and rally behind a good cause. This year, $54,095 was raised for the Blue Tree Project, who are doing incredible work in raising awareness about mental health, and how critical it is to have those difficult conversations and encouraging people to speak up when battling mental health concerns.

Painted blue trees around Australia (and the world!) help to spread the message that “it’s OK to not be OK”, breaking down the stigma that’s still largely attached to mental health. So whenever you see a painted blue tree, it serves as a reminder to ask someone if they are ok.

The money raised will go towards their 2022 road trip to promote awareness around mental health in regional schools. To find out more about the Blue Tree Project, click here.

 

Well done to all the organisers, volunteers, sponsors and teams for another fantastic MERC event! We are so proud to be part of MERC and to continue upholding the safety standards in the mining industry. Click here find out more about MERC.

We can’t wait to see you all at MERC 2022!