A major fire has broken out at Viva Energy's Corio oil refinery in Geelong, Victoria, disrupting fuel production and raising concerns about Australia’s petrol supplies amid a global fuel crunch. The blaze started just before midnight on Wednesday due to equipment failure, likely a leak or valve malfunction, according to Fire Rescue Victoria deputy commissioner Michelle Cowling.
Key Takeaways
A major fire at Viva Energy's Corio oil refinery in Geelong has disrupted Australia’s fuel supply. The blaze started late Wednesday due to equipment failure, affecting petrol production units and causing concerns about air quality.
- Fire caused by equipment failure, likely a leak or valve malfunction
- 50 firefighters and 10 fire trucks responded to the scene
- Petrol production impacted; diesel and jet fuel continue at reduced levels
- Refining accounts for 50% of Victoria's fuel and 10% of Australia’s total demand
The fire has affected two petrol production units at the refinery, which produces 50% of Victoria's fuel and 10% of Australia’s total demand. According to BBC, Viva Energy CEO Scott Wyatt emphasized that safety is the primary concern, stating that production will only resume once it is safe to do so.
About 50 firefighters, 10 fire trucks, and a boat attended the scene. Fire Rescue Victoria assistant chief fire officer Michael McGuinness described the blaze as 'quite ferocious' with several explosions turning it into a large intense fire. The intensity has started to lower but the fire is still not under control and continues to burn.
The fire has prompted warnings about air quality in the area, with residents advised to shelter indoors due to smoke. A watch and act alert was issued at 1am but later downgraded to an advice message on the VicEmergency website around 5:30 am. The Victorian health minister Harriet Shing confirmed there were no known health risks or warnings from the refinery fire, and all employees and emergency responders have been accounted for.
Energy Minister Chris Bowen stated that while diesel and jet fuel production continues at reduced levels, petrol production will be impacted. He emphasized that the timing of the fire is not ideal given Australia’s existing fuel supply challenges exacerbated by the conflict in Iran. The government is working closely with Viva Energy to assess the situation.
Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj described the fire as unprecedented, noting that it is likely to continue burning for several hours. The refinery represents one of Viva’s main physical assets and employs more than 1,100 people. Trading in shares of Viva Energy has been suspended until further notice.
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