A significant fire broke out at Viva Energy's Corio oil refinery in Geelong late last night, prompting an emergency response and raising concerns about fuel supplies. The blaze, which started just after 11pm, produced multiple explosions and flames, but no injuries were reported. Fire Rescue Victoria confirmed the fire was extinguished by midday, though crews remain on site.
The refinery is one of only two in Australia capable of domestic fuel production, supplying 50% of Victoria's and 10% of the nation's fuel. Federal Energy Minister Chris Bowen acknowledged the incident would have an impact on fuel supplies, though the extent is not yet clear. The fire comes amid a global energy crisis exacerbated by the Iran war, which has strained oil shipments worldwide.
Viva Energy CEO Scott Wyatt stated the company's priority is ensuring site safety before assessing the impact on fuel production. He noted that while some units producing petrol were unaffected, the two units involved in the fire are critical. Fire Rescue Victoria Deputy Commissioner Michelle Cowling attributed the fire to an equipment failure in the transfer area, adding that it does not directly affect diesel or gasoline production.
Fire Rescue Victoria Assistant Chief Fire Officer Michael McGuinness described the blaze as "quite ferocious," requiring 50 firefighters to suppress it. He indicated the fire likely resulted from a malfunction in the mogas (motor gasoline) section, possibly due to a leak or pipe failure. The incident is not being treated as suspicious.
Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj called the fire "unprecedented" and noted that unaffected areas of the refinery continue to operate. The Australian Workers Union's Ronnie Hayden described the scene as resembling a war zone. Authorities are investigating the cause, while the refinery aims to resume normal operations safely.
