Gerald Lynch
Brimbank residents are calling for protection authorities to have greater power as the fallout from a significant factory fire in Derrimut earlier this month continues.
After a strong contingency of residents voiced concerns about the prevalence of toxic waste and chemicals kept close to home, a group of about 20 activists rallied outside of the Brimbank council chambers prior to the July 16 council meeting.
Prospective Brimbank council election candidate Graeme Blore was outspoken on the matter, and echoed the sentiments of many residents who are unsettled after the fire, pointing the finger at safety measures. “The fire was less than 1200 metres from housing in West Sunshine, 1100 metres from housing in Derrimut, and 400 metres from the golf course,” he said.
Mr Blore said residents were calling for an independent contamination taskforce or for WorkSafe and the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) to be given greater powers to shut down premises.
Brimbank councillor Virgina Tachos spoke out at the council meeting, giving thanks to the first responders who limited damage as much as possible.
“Thank you to all for tackling a complex and dangerous environment and fire with lots of hazards over such a tricky time,” she said.
“As the investigation will continue, so does the heightened concerns of our community, and the anxiety they may experience during a toxic fire just as this, please exercise self care.”
Melbourne Water has been working to manage contaminated runoff, and with the fire now contained, runoff is no longer expected to enter local waterways.
Fire Rescue Victoria said its priority remains making the scene of the fire fully safe, as neighbouring businesses have been cleared to return.
A state government spokesperson said the EPA had actively regulated the Derrimut facility, issuing environmental compliance notices after a October 2023 fire.
“Victorian Government reforms have delivered stronger environmental protection laws and provided more tools and powers to the EPA to strengthen its ability to do its job,” the spokesperson said.
Meanwhile a second Brimbank factory caught fire on Saturday, with more than 80 firefighters called to the blaze at a plastic shipping pallet factory in Deer Park.
The cause of that fire is under investigation.
