Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) teams collaborated with Luna Park Sydney to conduct a safety drill at the park’s newest roller coaster, 'The Boomerang.'
Opened in October of the previous year, this ride is one of nine new attractions. The steel shuttle roller coaster stands at 12 meters high, stretches across 181 meters, and reaches speeds up to 50 km/h. Recently, FRNSW firefighters engaged in a training exercise at the harborside amusement park to improve their familiarity with emergency protocols related to the ride.
Simulated Rescue Operation at Luna Park
During the exercise, Luna Park coordinated a simulated rescue operation involving a roller coaster car
During the exercise, Luna Park coordinated a simulated rescue operation involving a roller coaster car deliberately 'stalled' at the peak of its track, secured with heavy-duty ratchet straps.
Upon arriving at the park, the fire crew took the opportunity to pinpoint effective access points for deploying a ladder platform. Wearing full safety harnesses and 'full arrest' lanyards connected to a fixed safety line, firefighters climbed a nearby stairway to reach guests 'stranded' in the car as part of the drill.
Each participant, secured by two connection points to the safety line, was carefully escorted by firefighters down the stairs to the ground. Supt Kel McNamara, the Zone Commander for FRNSW, highlighted the value of this exercise for the Crows Nest “B” Platoon team.
Preparedness and Safety Protocols
Superintendent McNamara commented, “This forward-thinking by Luna Park Management means that if an emergency involving the ‘Boomerang’ ride did occur, our crews would be able to react and reach the affected site quickly and efficiently.”
Although Luna Park maintains its own stringent safety procedures, McNamara noted that having FRNSW crews familiar with the site could ease operations in case of medical emergencies or mobility issues, ensuring rapid response and coordination with the park's staff.
