Major Fire at Australian Oil Refinery Impacts Nation's Fuel Supplies

A significant fire broke out at Viva's Corio oil refinery in Geelong, southwest of Melbourne, Australia, just before midnight on Wednesday. Emergency crews responded to reports of explosions and flames at the facility, which is a crucial part of Australia's fuel infrastructure, producing 10% of the nation's fuel and 50% of Victoria's supply. The incident has heightened anxieties over Australia's petrol reserves, already under pressure from a global fuel crunch. No injuries were reported among the 50 to 100 workers safely evacuated from the site. While the blaze continues to burn, affecting two petrol production units, other units remain undamaged, and the refinery is partially operational for jet fuel and diesel at reduced levels. Australian Energy Minister Chris Bowen stated the fire was "not great timing" given existing fuel supply pressures and confirmed an investigation into the cause, which currently appears to be accidental. The fire's impact is expected to affect petrol production, adding to recent challenges such as doubled diesel prices, reported shortages, and airlines cutting services due to rising jet fuel costs. Viva Energy chief executive Scott Wyatt emphasized that safety is the primary priority, with production increases only resuming once confidence in safe operations is established. Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj described the fire as "unprecedented" and anticipated it would continue to burn for several hours.