Two men are counting their blessings after a terrifying fire ripped through a shed at a historic Geelong pub, with authorities declaring them "very lucky" to have escaped unharmed.
Blaze Erupts at Historic Hotel
Emergency services were called to the Gold Diggers Arms Hotel on Ballarat Road in Geelong just after 9:30 PM on Tuesday night. Firefighters arrived to find a large shed, approximately 10 metres by 20 metres in size, well alight. The shed, located at the rear of the iconic pub, was used for storage and as a workshop.
Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) crews from Geelong and Corio stations worked swiftly to bring the blaze under control. They managed to prevent the fire from spreading to the main hotel building, a crucial success given the structure's age and heritage value. The fire was declared under control by 10:15 PM.
Narrow Escape for Two Men
The most critical detail of the incident was the presence of two men inside the shed when the fire started. Both men managed to self-evacuate before firefighters arrived and were assessed at the scene by paramedics. Miraculously, neither sustained any injuries.
A Fire Rescue Victoria spokesperson emphasised the danger of the situation, stating the individuals were "very lucky to survive." The speed and intensity of the fire could have easily led to a tragic outcome, highlighting the importance of functional smoke alarms and clear escape plans in all buildings, including workshops and storage areas.
Investigation into the Cause
With the fire extinguished, the focus has now shifted to determining what sparked the dangerous blaze. Fire investigators attended the scene on Wednesday morning to begin a thorough examination of the charred remains. The shed sustained significant damage, making the task of pinpointing an origin and cause a meticulous process.
Authorities have not yet released any information about a suspected cause, stating the investigation is ongoing. They will be looking at all possibilities, including electrical faults, accidental ignition, or other factors common in workshop environments.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present risk of fire, particularly in spaces where flammable materials, tools, and equipment are stored. The lucky escape at the Gold Diggers Arms will undoubtedly prompt locals and business owners to review their own fire safety measures.
