Mactaquac, NB — On October 18, York Sunbury Search and Rescue (YSSR) co-led SAR Resolve 2025, a large-scale mock search and rescue exercise held at Mactaquac Provincial Park. The event marked the first major exercise of its kind organized by YSSR in several years and brought together regional emergency response and public safety partners to test their collective capabilities in a realistic operational environment.
The scenario involved a group of three hikers reported overdue late the night before. The exercise simulated a full SAR response, including initial hasty taskings and two geographically separate extractions each requiring medical and logistical coordination.
Participating agencies included:
- York Sunbury Search and Rescue (YSSR)
- Carleton Ground Search and Rescue
- Saint John Ambulance
- RCMP
- Fredericton Police Force
- Salvation Army
The event was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of a functional, multi-agency SAR system under the Incident Command System (ICS). Controllers and evaluators from YSSR, Carleton GSAR, and Saint John Ambulance oversaw the exercise, which emphasized collaboration in a no-fault learning environment.
“This was a great experience and really showcased what we can do,” said Bradley Parker, SAR Manager with YSSR. “I’d love to see these kinds of exercises become a more regular part of our training calendar. The exercise team did a great job putting this together”
The exercise also marked the first full-scale deployment of Rescue 11, YSSR’s newest response truck. While Rescue 11 had previously supported several Project Lifesaver incidents, this was its first test in a simulated large-area search. The truck transported members into remote terrain and delivered critical extraction equipment, earning high praise from the team.
“It was my first time in Rescue 11, and I was blown away by how much gear it could carry while still giving us room to fit in the back,” said one team member.
“It’s a game-changer for how we move and operate in the field,” added another.
Its successful deployment during SAR Resolve 2025 highlights the team’s ongoing commitment to operational readiness in volunteer search and rescue.
YSSR extends its thanks to all participating agencies and to the public for their support and curiosity during the event and extends its thanks to all who supported the development and launch of Rescue 11. For more details on the truck’s background and mission, please refer to our previous announcement.
