29 Oct 2010
Essential Services Operators, who keep electricity and water services on in remote communities, met in Darwin this week for training.One hundred and twenty ESOs are contracted right across the Northern Territory.
This week those from Northern communities, from Gunbalanya to Galiwinku, Belyuen and Nauiyu to Wadeye and Pirlangimpi, met in Darwin.
“ESOs really do provide an essential service in these isolated regions,” Power and Water's General Manager Remote Operations Darryl Day said.
“They treat and test drinking water and carry out routine power station maintenance, as well as make necessary repairs.
“Some of our ESOs are very experienced but this week gives them a chance to network, share ideas and ensure all their training is up to date.”
ESOs in northern communities are currently preparing for the cyclone season, storing additional fuel, filling water tanks and securing loose objects at our sites.
“ESOs are our eyes and ears in their region and they are the first on the ground to respond to an emergency,” Mr Day said.

John Cameron from Milingimbi practises fire suppression skills and Claver Walamerapui from Pirlangimpi inspects a water sample.