Three prominent Torquay businesses have been gutted in a fire that broke out in Bell Street around 12.30am on the 29th March.
Torquay Fire Brigade was called to the fire after smoke was discovered in the Bakery by an apprentice baker.
Bells Bakery, The Room that was Green and Deep Cleanse were severely damaged in the fire that is believed to have started in an art storage room at the back of the property. The cause of the fire could not be determined but is not suspicious.
No one was injured in the blaze that caused approximately $2 million damage and took Brigade members three hours to contain with the help of Geelong City’s Ladder platform.
Landlord Max Findlay said the fire has affected several businesses and displaced those living in the units above but he is thankful no one was injured.
“I’m looking at the bright side – it could have been a lot more devastating. We were lucky only one person was at home in the units at the time and he got out ok and we’re most fortunate to have had the cooperation of the emergency services and Powercor – it wasn’t an easy fire to put out and they did a wonderful job.”
Mr Findlay said it would take around six months to repair the damage.
Incident Controller for the fire was Torquay Captain Phil Campbell
The use of thermal imaging cameras proved their worth in assisting crews to completely blackout the scene.
Supporting Brigades responded were Belmont Pumper, Freshwater Creek Tanker, Anglesea Pumper, Grovedale support, Connewarre Tanker, Geelong City Ladder Platform , Corio’s BA Support, Aireys Inlet Slip-on.
Police helped by evacuating residents, SES provided lighting and Rural Ambulance treated people for smoke inhalation.
Torquay Fire Brigade
John Monagle April 17th 2013
Photo’s Courtesy of Darren Apps
Author: John Monagle