and picked up five awards including two first places. ▪ Photo contributed
The CSA Mine Emergency Response Team (ERT) has returned from the 2026 South Australian Mines Emergency Response Competition (SAMERC) with an impressive collection of awards, including two first places.
The competition tested mine rescue teams through challenging emergency scenarios, with a theory assessment on Wednesday followed by nine practical scenarios over Thursday and Friday.
The CSA Mine ERT claimed first place in SCBA Search & Rescue and Vertical Rescue, second in Mass Casualty and third in Confined Space Rescue, while captain Alex Lennon placed third in the Best Captain category.
Mr Lennon said the results reflected the considerable time and effort team members invested in preparing for the competition alongside their normal work commitments.
One of the standout moments came on Friday after team member Lauren Milne was hospitalised with food poisoning.
Determined not to let her teammates down, Lauren returned from hospital just in time to participate in the Mass Casualty scenario, helping the team secure second place.
“Her determination and commitment to her teammates reflected the spirit demonstrated by the entire CSA Mine ERT throughout the competition,” Mr Lennon said.
The Cobar Mutual Aid Team, which included CSA Mine ERT member Sean Hester, also enjoyed success.
Despite competing with limited equipment and fewer team members, they placed third in Surface Rescue and received the Chairman’s Award for their determination and commitment.
Mr Lennon said feedback from adjudicators consistently highlighted the CSA team’s excellent communication, mutual respect and teamwork.
“I think that speaks volumes about our ERT as a whole, not just those who attended the competition.
“We have a team that genuinely supports one another, listens, communicates and works together to get the job done.
“Everyone gave absolutely everything they had over the three days, and I couldn’t be prouder of their efforts.
“There’s no such thing as losing at a mine rescue competition.
“Every team walks away having learnt something, improved their skills and strengthened their ability to respond when it matters most.”
