The tobacco harm reduction debate is hotly contested throughout Australia and especially Tasmania where declining smoking rates have stalled, a member of parliament wants to raise the legal smoking age to 21 and research has outlined the dangers of electronic cigarettes. Vaping is a key part of the harm reduction debate. On one side, business and harm reduction groups have argued for the legalisation of tobacco vaping products for years. But, members of health and […]
Vaping debate to be heard by Senate inquiry into tobacco harm reduction
Barooga fuel leak sees early morning callout
4 years ago
Tocumwal Fire Rescue was called to Barooga service station for a fuel leakage at 5 am on Monday, October 5. About 200 litres of fuel leaked from the bowser onto the road and into drains. Vermont, MacFarland and Collie Sts were closed while the spill was contained and rendered safe. The streets were reopened about 11.15 am. Tocumwal Fire Rescue thanked Barooga RFS and Fire and Rescue NSW Station 278 Deniliquin for their assistance. Source
Viva Energy refinery leak incident
4 years ago
Emergency crews have been called to a hazardous materials incident at the Viva Energy refinery in Corio. Fire Rescue Victoria says about 12 firefighters were called to the Refinery Road address just before 5.20pm on Wednesday following reports of a hazmat incident. Crews arrived within eight minutes, and they are working with the CFA to make the scene safe. A Viva Energy spokesperson has also confirmed the incident. “A minor alarm sounded at the Viva Energy […]
Furious residents in Canberra’s west have accused Caltex of “downplaying” a petrol spill at one of its service stations, and say they will seek legal advice over fears it has contaminated the soil beneath their homes. Caltex confirmed a leak was discovered in an underground petrol tank at its Holt station in February, which has now contaminated soil and reached groundwater. Engineering firm WSP Australia has been brought in to investigate whether the petrol has […]
The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has released draft Guidelines to support owners of underground fuel storage to protect the environment and surrounding community and is seeking feedback from stakeholders. Underground fuel systems are commonly found at service stations, marinas, work depots, golf courses, airports, car dealerships and where fuel is stored or used. Leaks and spills from these systems can harm the environment and pose a risk for the community by contaminating land and […]