'BLUE LUMINARY 2' NATIONAL COUNTER-TERRORIST EXERCISE - Press Release
Release date: 17 May 2007
NSW and Commonwealth representatives are currently engaged in a major national counterterrorism exercise, which commenced in Sydney last week and is focussed entirely on APEC Leaders Week to be held in September.
“Blue Luminary 2” is an exercise jointly sponsored by the Commonwealth and State Governments and has been testing both state and national capabilities to respond to a series of significant scenarios which could impact upon the event.
NSW Deputy Commissioner Terry Collins said the exercise is part of a series of counter–terrorism activities held regularly in each of the states and territories, and have included Blue Luminary 1 and Neptune’s Treasure which were both conducted last year.
“These major exercises are supported with regular state and agency based exercises including rail, ferry and road transport focussed operations.”
“While we have ongoing training for our response capabilities, this exercise is aimed at the police commanders and the command structure which will be in place for APEC Leaders Week.”
“Over two days our police commanders and their counter–parts from Commonwealth agencies and the APEC Taskforce will test the decision making process as a series of rigorous scenarios unfold.”
“We have a well–practiced National Counter–Terrorism Plan, and we are committed to ensuring our State arrangements are robust and flexible enough to respond to real life situations.”
“Last week, Blue Luminary 2 involved motorcade training at Oran Park, and various agencies who would normally participate in motorcades during APEC Leaders Week.”
Deputy Commissioner Collins added that the NSW Police Force was committed to providing a safe and secure environment for our international visitors and to minimise disruption for those who live and work in the Sydney CBD.
Participants will include specialist sections of NSW Police Force, the Australian Defence Force, NSW Premier’s Department, and a number of Commonwealth departments including the Department of Defence, Attorney General’s Department, Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Prime Minister and Cabinet.
Recently, the NSW Police Force Counter Terrorism and Special Tactics Command had an increase in staffing and capability to meet the challenge of identifying and responding to threats.
“The areas which have been increased include intelligence officers, investigations and dignitary protection.”
“These additional resources are a crucial investment in the counter terrorism capability of NSW, and our ability to detect and respond to threats against the well being of our society,” Deputy Commissioner Terry Collins said.
Issued by the NSW Police Force Media Unit (02) 8263 6100
Authorised by Deputy Commissioner Terry Collins
(ref: kd: F:meddocs/medrels/May 2007/BlueLuminary170507)