Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) has ended its search and rescue operation after the discovery of a body at the site of the Whalan townhouse collapse.
Much of the scene was cleared of debris after a pain-staking weekend operation involving FRNSW, Police Rescue and specialist NSW Ambulance officers.
FRNSW Urban Search and Rescue (USAR)
Using special core drills, technicians then made holes in the larger concrete slabs
FRNSW Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) experts propped up a dangerously-perched first floor concrete slab, using stabilizing rams, as other first responders in a cage, lifted by crane, swept additional debris from above, to ensure it wouldn’t fall during the major clearance stage at night.
Using special core drills, technicians then made holes in the larger concrete slabs that had toppled to the ground during the collapse, allowing them to insert search cameras, looking for voids and air pockets.
Large slabs removed from the scene by crane
The slabs were then removed from the scene by crane. That process gave the officers access under the larger rubble, resulting in the discovery of the body. FRNSW has now formally handed control of the site to NSW Police.
Members of the FRNSW Fire Investigation and Research Unit (FIRU) will now assist Police investigators to determine the cause of Saturday’s explosion and collapse.
