Fire engulfs Refresh Plastics' factory

A intense fire has engulfed the Keysborough factory of plastic blow moulding operation Refresh Plastics, destroying millions of dollars’ worth of stock and equipment.

The toxic blaze reportedly needed 120 firefighters and 33 fire trucks to bring it under control, with residents in a two-mile radius ordered to take shelter immediately, stay indoors, close all windows, and turn off heating and cooling systems.

The fire was discovered by a passing police patrol at 5.20am, no-one was on site at the time. The fire service took three hours to get the blaze under control.

Refresh Plastics produces bottles and containers for a range of clients in the beer, wine and beverage sectors among others, as well as producing its own range of outdoor toys.

Its general manager Ian Cameron expressed his dismay to local media, but said the company was insured. Police at Great Dandenong CIU have reportedly declared the property a crime scene.

Refresh Plastics is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Eneco Refresh, which is listed on the ASX.