Australia has recently witnessed a significant surge in fires, highlighting the challenges faced by emergency services and the dire consequences of industrial incidents. A series of events, contributing to this worrying trend, includes the recent liquidation of ACB Group and several localized structure fires.
Liquidators commenced clean-up operations at the ACB Group’s Derrimut site, which has been notorious for industrial blazes, including one fatal incident last year. SV Partners’ liquidator Matt Hudson informed the public about their efforts to manage what remains at the site overseeing the disposal of contaminated waste following regulatory notices issued by the Environment Protection Authority (EPA).
Hudson emphasized the urgency of their operations, stating, "We were mindful of the impact it would have on creditors’ dividends, but also if it wasn’t done then there would be significant risks associated with non-compliance of those EPA notices.” The cleanup aims to curb any potential environmental hazard, especially following recent fires tied to the site.
The need for immediate intervention was illustrated on July 10, 2024, when explosions at the ACB Group’s chemical blending factory led to massive fires engulfing parts of Melbourne. Approximately 180 firefighters responded to the blaze, which choked the region with toxic smoke. The complete unraveling of operations has left the company owing over $5 million to creditors.
On March 1, 2025, firefighters were once again called upon, this time to tackle another fire on Clover Avenue, Wodonga. Responding at 3:52 PM to emergency calls, fire rescue units arrived to find flames and smoke billowing from a metal and wooden shed. Emergency services managed to extinguish the blaze within just 20 minutes, demonstrating their readiness and efficiency under pressure.
A spokesperson from Fire Rescue Victoria reported, "FRV and CFA crews wore breathing apparatus to conduct an internal attack on the blaze,” elaborated on the coordinated efforts involving multiple trucks and tankers. Unfortunately, the incident caused smoke inhalation injuries requiring treatment for three individuals.
Meanwhile, the focus on fire safety and emergency response did not end there. Another serious incident occurred shortly thereafter, leading to the destruction of a home within the Goulburn district. Hume Police Inspector Dave Cowell reported the scene, which was quickly overwhelmed by flames, stating, "The house was fully involved in flames when we arrived.” Emergency responders also faced the challenge of managing bystanders, as police had to step in to control curious individuals obstructing access to the site.
Heroic efforts saw the fire contained within approximately 30 minutes; nevertheless, the house was entirely lost to the flames. One occupant managed to self-evacuate, and no injuries were reported. The property was being rented as two separate apartments, making the loss even more devastating to the community.
Inspector Cowell stated police initiated investigations leading to the arrest of a 53-year-old woman at the scene, noting she was treated and transported for assessment but no charges had yet been filed. The investigation emphasizes the often complex nature of fire incidents and their aftermath—ensuring safety and accountability is often not straightforward.
These events serve to underline the urgent need for comprehensive emergency response strategies, especially within areas vulnerable to both industrial and residential fires. With summer underway, officials are reminded of the heightened risk of wildfires and the significance of preventative measures.
Regular inspections and regulatory enforcement, as highlighted by the EPA’s involvement at the ACB site, are pertinent to safeguarding both public health and the environment following such incidents. The EPA’s western metropolitan regional manager, Jeremy Settle, confirmed, saying his team continues its assessment of risks posed to human health and the environment, stating, “Issues around ACB Group and the July 2024 fire at Derrimut remain under investigation.”
Through these tumultuous times, the resilience of frontline workers and emergency services remains pivotal. Initiatives focusing on prompt response protocols, environmental responsibility, and community support will shape the future safety standards of the affected areas.