What happened

A gas leak reportedly caused by a faulty mechanical component in the motor-gasoline alkylation unit ignited at Viva Energy's Geelong refinery, producing flames as high as 60 meters and a major hydrocarbon fire that took about 13 hours to extinguish. No injuries were reported; nearby residents were advised to shelter indoors, and firefighting water entering Corio Bay prompted a water-contact caution, though EPA Victoria assessed ongoing public risk as low. The rest of the refinery continued operating at reduced rates: petrol output initially fell to about 60%, while diesel and jet-fuel output were reduced to about 80% under safety precautions. Viva said returning to full capacity could take weeks. The refinery produces about 10% of Australia's fuel.

When cited sources give different casualty, damage or spill figures for this event, they’re reported side by side above rather than merged into one number. See how confidence levels work.