Fire and Rescue NSW continuing to help communities recover | mid-north coast
Published: 25 May 2025 04:15pm
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) crews are continuing to provide specialist assistance to aid the SES-led flood response in the state’s north and mid-north coast.
FRNSW’s heavy-lifting Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) or drones have been used to drop hay from the air to isolated farms and conduct aerial welfare checks at properties.
The drones have also been used to assist Transport for New South Wales to monitor the reopening of the Pacific Highway at Taree and Coopernook last night.
FRNSW has also flown a reconnaissance flight to provide intelligence to a fire crew pumping water from the main street of Kempsey.
Using FRNSW’s ‘hytrans’ bulk water transfer unit, the firefighters have been moving 250,000 litres an hour from the town centre, back into the Macleay River.
FRNSW is preparing to send Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) and Decontamination crews to the flood zone to further protect the communities.
Community liaison and wellbeing staff are also preparing to head north from Sydney.
Media note – Footage of the above activities, including the highway reopening, is available here: https://vimeo.com/1087456219/8cf6dcfbc7
Updated: 06 Mar 2026 6:09pm