Fire and water combines at our Great Barrier Reef International Marine College in Cairns (GBRIMC) to offer industry relevant training programs. But the result is more than just a bit of hot air. Outcomes meet the regulatory requirements of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.
Technology has revolutionised how people undertaking high-risk professions receive their training. Research shows that immersive simulation-based training can positively influence student confidence and competence (Wright, A. 2018)
The GBRIMC is an $8 million facility that has a full mission bridge simulator, a ship ashore facility for firefighting and flood training, a sea survival training immersion pool, engineering workshops and its very own training vessel, Gwendoline May – all located on the doorstep of the Great Barrier Reef
The entire facility has been designed through the advice received by marine industry and a range of other stakeholders to guarantee a learning environment that duplicates the expectations and discipline of the workplace with a focus on real learning for real jobs.
Let’s dive right in and take a look at the awesome tech on offer:
Used for sea survival training, the on-site immersion pool measures 15 metres x 10 metres and is four metres deep. The immersion pool allows you to simulate emergency procedures including the launch and operation of life-rafts and use of on-board lifesaving equipment for survival techniques and ocean rescues.
This “ship ashore” facility provides a variety of training opportunities including real time firefighting, leak stopping (damage control) and crew emergency response training. Complete with an engine room, switchboard, galley, cabin and a three-deck accommodation block – training is supported by a fully qualified team with comprehensive safeguards and procedures.
If you like it hot, then this is for you
Our Kongsberg Polaris simulator is STCW and DNV compliant. It has a 270 degree field of vision and is equipped with Electronic Chart Display's (ECDIS), ARPA Radar's, AIS and has the controls to operate a range of propulsion and steering systems including Azimuth Drive and Bow thrusters. A comprehensive library of ships and port area models are available. Additional ship models can be obtained to meet client requirements.
The simulator’s integrated database and hydro-dynamic software allows operators to modify the experience according to student requirements. Digital models of ports from around the world, including major Australian ports, have been pre-programmed into this state-of-the-art system. The software also allows for the digital modelling of any other port not already programmed into the system.
If you’re ready to dive deeper why not take a tour of the facility? The Great Barrier Reef International Marine College in Cairns is hosting a viewing of the facilities on 13 September 2018 from 10.30am to 11.30am.
Wright, Anthony. (2018). The influence of a full-time, immersive simulation-based clinical placement on physiotherapy student confidence during the transition to clinical practice. Title of Journal, Volume(issue). Retrieved from https://advancesinsimulation.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s41077-018-0062-9