A significant fire has torn through the Tungatinah Power Station at Tarraleah overnight, causing extensive damage to the key hydro-electric facility. Emergency services were called to the remote Central Highlands site late Wednesday evening, with the blaze brought under control in the early hours of Thursday morning.
Tasmania Fire Service (TFS) received a Triple-Zero (000) call around 8:50 PM on Wednesday, with crews arriving approximately 27 minutes later. TFS Deputy Chief Matt Lowe praised the volunteer crews who tackled the difficult and complex fire, noting the significant safety challenges involved. At the height of the incident, 25 crews and about 45 personnel from the fire service and State Emergency Service were on scene, supported by aerial appliances and drone capabilities from Launceston and Hobart.
The fire left the main building of the power station in the early stages of collapse, with images released showing the facility gutted. Hydro Tasmania confirmed that no employees or contractors were on site when the fire broke out, as the station is remotely operated, and thankfully, no injuries have been reported. The full extent of the damage is yet to be assessed, as crews work to make the site safe for investigators.
Despite the severe damage, Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff and Hydro Tasmania have moved to reassure residents that there is no risk to Tasmania’s overall power and energy supply. Premier Rockliff stated that Tungatinah is a “very important part of our hydro network, accounting for around 5% of Tasmania’s power.”
The cause of the fire remains unknown, with fire scene examiners now working alongside detectives to investigate the circumstances.
Locally, the incident has led to the closure of the Lyell Highway between Fourteen Mile Road and Victoria Valley Road, which is expected to remain in place for approximately 24 hours. Tasmania Police have advised that residents will still be able to access Bradys Lake.
Hydro Tasmania’s immediate focus is supporting the Tasmania Fire Service and Tasmania Police with detailed site information and assistance for emergency crews. Further investigations into the incident are expected to continue throughout the day. Readers seeking more information can refer to the original reporting by ABC News (Tasmania).