The best prepare for the worst
Regional cooperation and disaster-response capability received a boost during the latest iteration of Exercise Pacific Partnership, held in Samoa.
CAPTION: International partners train with Samoan Emergency Services and Police during Exercise Pacific Partnership in Samoa. Story by Captain Katy Manning. Photos by Corporal Dana Millington.
Led by the United States Navy in Apia, the Indo-Pacific’s largest annual humanitarian and disaster-response mission wrapped up at the end of last month.
Australia deployed four ADF personnel to Apia, including Major Paul Randall, of Headquarters 1st (Australian) Division.
He worked with partner nations, Samoan disaster-management authorities and military and civilian experts in medical, engineering and emergency response to coordinate disaster-relief efforts and strengthen regional cooperation and community resilience.
CAPTION: Samoan Emergency Services and Police work together during disaster-relief simulations as part of Exercise Pacific Partnership in Samoa.
“Our role here in Samoa was to coordinate efforts on the ground and make sure everyone worked together smoothly,” Major Randall said.
“It was about collaboration, respect and delivering outcomes that really mattered to the people here.
“For example, we mapped potential flood zones and pre-positioned supplies to ensure rapid response in case of emergency.”
CAPTION: Samoan Emergency Services tend to a casualty during a simulated disaster-relief exercise.
In a simulated mass-rescue operation and oil-spill response, participants coordinated efforts between sea and land agencies, testing communication, logistics and emergency-management capabilities.
Deputy Commander for Pacific Partnership 2025 Colonel Matt Churchward, of the Royal Marines, said the exercise strengthened regional partnerships and readiness.
“It’s about building strategic relationships between allies so that if we had to respond in crisis, we already know how to work together,” he said.
Colonel Churchward said Australia’s expertise added significant value to the mission’s success.
“Australia has brought real value through its niche roles, from medical planners to gender advisers,” he said.
“Their expertise has been integral, and it’s been a pleasure to work alongside them.”
Ana Faatoia, of Samoa’s Disaster Management Office, said Pacific Partnership was important in achieving preparedness for future emergencies.
“We’re not alone in the impacts of disasters, particularly with cyclone season coming up. It’s important for us to always be prepared,” she said.
CAPTION: Australian Army officer Major Paul Randall, right, with Deputy Commander for Exercise Pacific Partnership 2025 Colonel Matt Churchward, of the Royal Marines, in Samoa.
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