NSW State Emergency Services Port Macquarie volunteers have put their horse wrangling skills to the test, participating in large animal rescue training at Port Stephens.
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Eight personnel from the Port Macquarie unit and another eight from Port Stephens took part in the course to learn about rescuing cattle or horses safely on June 29 and 30.
Deputy commander Michael Brumby said the Port Macquarie unit received a number of large animal rescue call outs annually.
"Our unit is a general land rescue unit for Port Macquarie, we are required to assist and deal with land animal rescues within the area," said Mr Brumby.
"We can be called out to assist with large animals that are trapped in some shape or form.
"We've had two or three horses trapped in muddy dams last year, other calls have come from flood conditions.
"This training provides new techniques, skills and opportunities of using new equipment to ensure the safety of our operators when we are called to these jobs."
Volunteers practiced their rescue techniques with mannequins and live animals over the course of two days.
"Large animal behaviour can be unpredictable in a rescue situation," said Mr Brumby.
"For example a kick from a horse can be fatal in the wrong place, so there is extra risk in these situations.
"We'd discourage members of the public from trying to affect a rescue themselves, get the appropriate authority out to do it."
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