Viva Energy has commenced the restoration of its Geelong refinery following a significant fire incident, transitioning from emergency response to recovery operations. The company confirmed that the site is no longer in an emergency state, allowing teams to begin assessing damage and planning repairs.
Fire Incident and Immediate Response
The fire, which broke out earlier this week, prompted an immediate shutdown of operations and evacuation of non-essential personnel. Emergency services, including the Country Fire Authority (CFA), responded swiftly to contain the blaze. No injuries were reported, and the fire was brought under control within hours.
Viva Energy's management praised the quick actions of staff and emergency crews, which prevented the fire from escalating. Environmental monitoring has been ongoing to ensure no harmful emissions have affected nearby communities.
Transition to Restoration Phase
With the emergency phase concluded, Viva Energy has shifted focus to restoration. This includes structural inspections, equipment assessments, and safety checks before any restart of operations. The company stated that the restoration process will be methodical to ensure the safety of workers and the surrounding area.
“We are grateful for the support from emergency services and the community. Our priority now is to safely restore the refinery and resume operations as soon as possible,” a Viva Energy spokesperson said.
Impact on Operations and Supply
The Geelong refinery is a key supplier of fuel to Victoria and southern New South Wales. While the fire caused a temporary halt in production, Viva Energy has assured that fuel supplies remain secure due to existing stockpiles and alternative sources. The company is working closely with the Australian government to monitor supply chains.
Local residents have been advised that there is no ongoing risk to public health, and air quality testing has returned normal results. The refinery's restoration is expected to take several weeks, with a full operational restart dependent on regulatory approvals.
Community and Environmental Considerations
Viva Energy has committed to keeping the community informed throughout the restoration process. Environmental experts are conducting thorough assessments to mitigate any long-term impacts. The company has also set up a community hotline for residents to report concerns.
The Geelong refinery has been a cornerstone of the local economy for decades, employing hundreds of workers. The restoration is seen as a positive step toward maintaining this economic contribution.
As restoration progresses, Viva Energy will provide regular updates. The company remains focused on ensuring that the refinery meets all safety standards before resuming full operations.
