Portland community meeting 8pm

There is a leak from the Liquid Pitch Facility at the Port of Portland.

Incident controller Henry Barton said at present there are no vapours impacting residential areas in Portland. If the situation changes CFA will provide immediate advice and warnings to the community.

The CFA were alerted to a Leak at the Koppers facility at the Port of Portland yesterday afternoon where one of the two 4000 tonne tanks was breached with the tar pitch being contained by a bunted area.

There is no fire involved in this incident although 25 fire fighters are working to contain the situation along with the Port Authority, VICPOL, SES, Shire, EPA, Workcover and other services.

Anticipated situation over coming days:

Concerns have been raised by the community about potential school and business closures.  At this stage CFA does not consider the need for any closures at this time.  This will be reviewed regularly and the community and businesses will be advised if the situation changes.

CFA will advise the community via local radio, websites, Emergency Alert via mobile and landline phones if there is a threat to life.

Weather forecast

Remote monitoring stations are being deployed to monitor air in Portland

Wind Change expect approx 2300 which may see some impact on CBD.  Roadblocks will be modified to ensure public safety

For the latest information contact the Victorian Bushfire information line 1800 240 667

Road Closures: 

Madeira Packet Rd, Findlay St, Henty Highway at Greenmount LK and all access to the breakwater is closed.

And advice message has been issued and can be found at the CFA Website