New app boosts tourist safety in Mandurah

The City of Mandurah together with other groups has launched a new app aimed at providing up to date information about emergencies in Mandurah for locals and tourists.

The City of Mandurah will use a $20,000 grant from the State Government to raise emergency preparedness among visitors to the Peel region.

The Prepare the Peel project was sparked after emergency events around Australia have highlighted the need for travellers to be better informed of emergency alerts, warnings and information systems.

The City’s Emergency Management team is working with the Mandurah and Peel Tourism Organisation, Department of Fire and Emergency Services, four local governments and accommodation providers from the Peel region to deliver the six-month Prepare the Peel project.

Visitors to the Peel region will be encouraged to download free emergency mobile apps, Emergency AUS and Emergency +.

A range of other resources will be developed for the Peel Region tourism sector to raise emergency preparedness in addition to the apps.

The Emergency AUS and Emergency + apps help users contact the correct emergency services number, provide proximity alerts and emergency information and advice. 

The apps also provide location information, for devices with GPS accessibility, and will assist in an emergency.

City of Mandurah Emergency Management Coordinator, Myra Giardini said these are tried and tested, existing, emergency apps being promoted

"We have developed new resources to promote them to the traveller and tourism sector," she said. 

The project focuses on the Peel’s short-term accommodation sector, with plans to develop resources for wider WA.

Mayor Rhys Williams said the technology will help travellers stay informed of emergencies occurring around them and provide them with the tools to respond effectively.

“Time can be critical in an emergency and it’s so important that we are all prepared, including visitors to our remarkable region,” he said.

“Emergency preparedness is a shared responsibility and benefits all, so as we approach the bushfire season I encourage our local community to get the apps too.”

Member for Mandurah, David Templeman MLA agreed the initiative was important and the City of Mandurah and Mandurah and Peel Tourism Organisation deserve recognition for it.

"....Is a great example of a Local Government leading and collaborating with stakeholders to create a tool ultimately focused on increased community safety during emergency and or threatening events," he said. 

“I particularly acknowledge City of Mandurah Emergency Management Coordinator, Myra Giardini for her commitment to developing this initiative."

The Prepare the Peel project is a locally developed initiative which can be expanded throughout the state and nationally.