Fire and Rescue NSW deploys innovative vehicle ‘decontamination gantry’ to flood zone - Port Macquarie
Published: 29 May 2025 06:18pm
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) has deployed a portable decontamination gantry system to support multi-agency flood response efforts in Port Macquarie, marking the first operational use of the system.
The system was developed following lessons learned during the 2021 floods where decontamination methods proved risky and labour-intensive for emergency services personnel.
The gantry is portable and can be deployed to relevant incidents in a matter of hours.
It enables rapid and effective cleaning of flood-contaminated vehicles before they return to base or enter the community.
On Wednesday, the system processed more than 150 vehicles and decontaminated over 250 personnel.
Superintendent HAZMAT and Counter Terrorism, Greg Wright said the gantry represents a significant advancement in FRNSW’s approach to both HAZMAT response and environmental protection.
“In the past, vehicle decontamination was conducted using labour-intensive methods such as pressure washers and hoses, which is time-consuming and also exposes personnel to unnecessary risks.
“This system significantly reduces both risk and resource requirements, allowing crews to return to their base with a reduced risk of injury or illness, allowing them to focus their efforts on community recovery.”
Media note – Footage of the decontamination gantry operating at Port Macquarie is available here: https://vimeo.com/1088649689/50da306504?share=copy [external link]
Updated: 29 May 2025 04:23pm
Details about this incident may change and should not be used as emergency information and/or advice.
For all life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000)
For flood information, warnings or requests for non-life threatening assistance, call the SES on 132 500 or visit the NSW State Emergency Service website here. [external link].
For information directly relating to bushfires please call the Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737 or visit the NSW Rural Fire Service Website here. [external link]
Stations nearby
5 Central Rd, Port Macquarie NSW 2444
22 Young Street, Wauchope NSW 2446
33 Castle Street, Laurieton NSW 2443