Just after 2am, police said authorities were still responding to the “large fire” at the Shell Parade oil refinery in Corio and there were no reports of injuries.
“People in the surrounding areas are being asked to stay indoors with their windows closed due to the large amount of smoke,” a spokesperson told 9news.com.au.
The Country Fire Authority issued a watch and act warning for a string of surrounding suburbs about 1.10am after a wind change sent smoke towards northern Geelong.
Anyone south of Refinery Road in Corio was urged to “take shelter indoors immediately”.
“Close all exterior doors and windows. Turn off heating and cooling systems. Close fireplaces and vents,” the CFA said.
“You should avoid the area.
“If you are driving, close the windows in your vehicle and turn off the air conditioning.
“Keep the roads clear so emergency services can respond.”
The warning, which was upgraded from an earlier advice message, encompassed Chilwell, Corio, Drumcondra, Geelong, Geelong West, Hamlyn Heights, Newtown, Norlane, North Geelong, North Shore, Rippleside and South Geelong.
The CFA said smoke might be impacting south of Refinery Road to West Fyans Street and Fyans Street, as well as east of Shannons Avenue to the waterfront.
Six domestic oil refineries have closed in the last 20 years, leaving only the Ampol Lytton refinery in Brisbane and Viva Energy’s Geelong facility operational and meaning Australia imports 90 per cent of its liquid fuel needs.
According to Viva Energy, the refinery processes up to 120,000 barrels of oil per day and supplies more than 50 per cent of Victoria’s fuel needs.
It’s unclear what impact, if any, the fire may have on fuel supplies amid the ongoing crisis sparked by the war in Iran.
Viva Energy has been contacted for comment.
NEVER MISS A STORY: Get your breaking news and exclusive stories first by following us across all platforms.
Discussion about this post