A major fire broke out at the Viva Energy Corio refinery near Geelong, Australia, burning for 13 hours from just before midnight on April 15 until noon the following day.The fire significantly reduced production of petrol, diesel, and aviation fuel at one of Australia's two remaining oil refineries.Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed petrol production fell by 40%, with diesel and aviation fuel production continuing at about 80% capacity.Despite the disruption, Albanese ruled out imposing stage 3 fuel restrictions or rationing under the national fuel security plan.He noted that 60% of petrol production was ongoing and expected to increase in the... [Continue Reading]
A fire broke out on Wednesday at the Viva Energy refinery in Geelong, Victoria, disrupting fuel production and raising concerns about supply amid global energy tensions.The fire occurred in the refinery's gasoline production unit, also known as the mogas plant, and was driven by a hydrocarbon leak.The refinery, located approximately 75 kilometres south-west of Melbourne, processes about 120,000 barrels of crude oil daily and supplies roughly 10% of Australia's gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel to the eastern states, including Victoria, Tasmania, and parts of New South Wales.Emergency services responded promptly, involving fire crews and hazardous materials specialists.Authorities confirmed that the... [Continue Reading]
A major fire broke out at Viva Energy's Corio oil refinery in Geelong, Victoria, Australia, just before midnight on April 15, 2026.Emergency crews responded to reports of explosions and flames at the site, which produces about 120,000 barrels of oil per day.The refinery supplies 50% of Victoria's fuel and 10% of Australia's total fuel demand.No injuries have been reported, and all workers on site were safely evacuated.The fire continues to burn, prompting warnings about air quality in the surrounding area.The facility remains partially operational, with jet fuel and diesel production continuing at reduced levels as a safety precaution.However, petrol production... [Continue Reading]
Michael Healy-Rae resigned from his position as Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture on April 14, 2026, citing the government's failure to listen to the public amid ongoing fuel cost protests.His departure marks a significant shift in the Irish government's coalition dynamics.Healy-Rae's resignation was announced in the Dáil chamber, where he expressed that he could no longer support the government in good conscience.He highlighted the emotional impact of seeing people distressed over rising diesel prices as a key factor in his decision.The resignation reduces the government's majority from 94 to 92 TDs, with both Healy-Rae brothers now sitting... [Continue Reading]
Slow-moving tractors have caused significant traffic disruption on the Sydenham Bypass in Belfast as demonstrators protest rising energy bills.The protests are linked to the surge in fuel prices driven by the ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil shipping route.Tractors were observed moving slowly in both directions near Belfast City Airport, leading to delays.Police have advised motorists to allow extra time for their journeys due to the congestion.Health Minister Mike Nesbitt urged protesters not to block roads, emphasizing that such disruptions could threaten lives by impeding healthcare workers from reaching patients.Meanwhile,... [Continue Reading]
Hundreds of petrol stations across the Republic of Ireland have run out of fuel amid ongoing protests over high prices linked to the US-Israeli war with Iran.The demonstrations, now in their fifth day, involve slow-moving convoys including tractors and have caused blockades in key areas.Approximately 600 forecourts have depleted their petrol and diesel supplies, according to recent reports.Blockades continue in Dublin city centre, notably on O'Connell Street and South Quay, as well as at three fuel-storage facilities including the Whitegate oil refinery in County Cork and depots in counties Limerick and Galway.Public transport services have been disrupted, with some suspensions... [Continue Reading]
The investigation into the mysterious death of Ouyen man Richard Wills continues as police appeal for public assistance. Mr Wills's body was discovered in a shallow grave on his rural property, leading to questions surrounding the circumstances of his death. Residing in the rural region of Ouyen, Mr Wills was last seen leaving his home on April 5 around 8am, significantly raising concerns among local residents and authorities. Victoria Police are actively seeking information that could shed light on the events leading up to Mr Wills's death. Initial reports indicate he sustained fatal injuries, which authorities believe were connected to... [Continue Reading]
Protests over rising fuel prices have intensified in Ireland, entering their fourth consecutive day, while also spilling over into Norway, reflecting the widespread unrest triggered by escalating costs linked to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. Hauliers, farmers, and other groups have mobilized to block major motorways, leading to significant disruptions particularly in the Irish capital, Dublin, where streets came to a standstill. In Ireland, the ongoing protests have resulted in severe fuel shortages and have disrupted travel plans nationwide. As demonstrators continued to obstruct key thoroughfares, the government responded by putting the military on standby to assist law enforcement... [Continue Reading]
Fuel shortages in Ireland are disrupting home care services, with increasing reports from carers unable to reach clients due to the crisis. Joseph Musgrave, Chief Executive of Home and Community Care Ireland, stated that around 1,500 individuals rely on home care assistance. He emphasized that if home carers cannot fulfill their duties, these individuals may be forced to seek hospital care, putting additional strain on the healthcare system. Speaking on RTÉ's *Today with David McCullagh*, Musgrave outlined the alarming situation that unfolded recently, with a sudden influx of calls and emails notifying him of the fuel crisis impacting caregivers. The... [Continue Reading]