A massive fire erupted at Viva Energy’s Corio refinery in Geelong, Victoria, one of Australia’s two operational oil refineries. Residents in the area were instructed to stay indoors due to heavy smoke.
The facility supplies 50 percent of Victoria’s fuel and 10 percent of Australia’s, processing approximately 120,000 barrels of oil daily. The refinery produces hydrocarbon solvents, marine fuel oil, low aromatic fuel, avgas, bitumen, and high-quality plastic feedstock used for food packaging, medical equipment, and polymer banknotes.
The Country Fire Authority issued a watch and act for a large portion of Geelong, urging residents south of Refinery Road Corio to take shelter indoors immediately. Authorities reported that the fire is located on Refinery Road in Corio, with smoke being blown toward Northern Geelong due to shifting winds. Residents were also advised to avoid roads to allow emergency services access.
The Victoria Emergency website shows a large blaze at the site, which remains uncontrolled. As of the latest update, 10 emergency vehicles are responding.
