A significant fire broke out at Viva Energy's Corio refinery in Geelong overnight, prompting emergency responses and raising concerns about fuel supplies. The blaze, which started just after 11pm, was extinguished by midday, with no injuries reported.
The refinery produces 50% of Victoria's fuel and 10% of Australia's fuel, making it one of only two domestic refineries, the other being in Brisbane. The incident has heightened worries amid global energy pressures from the Iran conflict.
Federal Energy Minister Chris Bowen acknowledged the fire would have an impact on fuel supplies, though the extent remains unclear. Viva Energy CEO Scott Wyatt stated the focus is on safety before assessing production impacts, noting that petrol production may be affected.
Fire Rescue Victoria deputy commissioner Michelle Cowling attributed the fire to an equipment failure in the transfer area, but assured that diesel and gasoline production were not directly impacted. Refinery manager Bill Patterson indicated other units could compensate if needed.
The Country Fire Authority issued a watch-and-act alert for parts of Geelong, advising residents south of Refinery Road to take shelter. Fifty firefighters battled the blaze, which involved several explosions. Investigations are ongoing, but the fire is not considered suspicious.
Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj described the fire as unprecedented, while Australian Workers Union branch secretary Ronnie Hayden likened the scene to a war zone. Despite the severity, unaffected areas of the refinery continue to operate.
