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Mackay Airport adds bomb bag to safety arsenal

Mackay Airport has taken delivery of an anti-terror shield, designed to minimise and contain the impact of bombs and other weapons.

The French designed Ground Bomb Killer cost $14 000 and has been integrated into the airport’s emergency operational procedures. The airport is the first regional facility in Australia to purchase the device.

Mackay Airport operations manager Ray Waters said the ‘bomb bag’ utilised aramide fibre and Kevlar to contain a potentially life threatening blast.

“The open ended bag is designed to direct the force of a lateral blast harmlessly upwards,” he said. “The bag is placed over a suspect device – thus reducing the public danger zone. The other advantage is that it can be placed over a variety of objects, particularly suitcases.

“Hopefully we will never have to use it but in light of events overseas you never know. Events in London recently highlight the need to be ever vigilant.

“As the manufacturer Sema says ‘if it saves one life it will be worthwhile’,”said Mr Waters.

Mackay police district counter terrorism liaison officer Sergeant John Tantalo said the Ground Bomb Killer would be a welcome addition to any airport’s anti-terror arsenal.

Sergeant Tantalo said the bag was another tool the Mackay Port Authority and police could utilise in an emergency situation.

He said Mackay would soon have a designated “bomb tech”.

“At the moment we have an officer undergoing extensive training in this field,” Sgt Tantalo said. “He will be based in Mackay and will be in a position to respond in the event of a bomb alert any where in the district.”