A popular Perth plant nursery and landscaping business has been severely damaged after a fierce overnight fire tore through its Osborne Park premises. Firefighters were called to the scene on Main Street in the early hours of Thursday morning to battle the blaze at the Plant Playground.
Fire Crews Battle Intense Flames
Emergency services received multiple calls just after 2:30 AM on Thursday, May 16, reporting a significant fire at the commercial property. Upon arrival, crews from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) were confronted with a well-established fire that had fully engulfed the business.
More than 20 firefighters worked to bring the intense flames under control, using multiple hose reels and aerial appliances to attack the fire from different angles. The main focus was to prevent the blaze from spreading to neighbouring properties in the industrial area.
The firefighting operation was complex and lasted for several hours. DFES confirmed that the fire was brought under control, but crews remained on site throughout the morning to damp down hot spots and ensure the area was safe.
Significant Damage and Investigation Launched
The Plant Playground, a business known for selling indoor plants, outdoor greenery, and landscaping supplies, has sustained extensive damage. Early assessments indicate the structure and its contents have been largely destroyed by the fire's intensity.
Authorities have confirmed that no injuries were reported as a result of the incident, a fact they have labelled fortunate given the scale of the fire. The business was closed and unoccupied at the time the blaze broke out.
Fire investigators have now commenced a detailed examination of the site to determine the origin and cause of the fire. A DFES spokesman stated that the investigation is in its early stages, and it is too soon to speculate on what sparked the devastating incident. Police are also assisting with the investigation.
Community and Business Impact
The fire has shocked the local business community and residents in the Osborne Park area. The Plant Playground was a well-known establishment for gardening enthusiasts and landscapers across Perth.
Main Street was partially closed to traffic during the emergency response, causing some disruption to the morning commute. Authorities have advised motorists to continue avoiding the area if possible while clean-up operations are underway.
The future of the business remains uncertain following the catastrophic damage. The incident serves as a stark reminder for all business owners to ensure their fire safety plans and equipment are up to date. The investigation by fire authorities continues.