New Year’s Eve celebrations in southeastern Melbourne were disrupted by two separate fires reportedly sparked by fireworks. Emergency crews responded to both incidents, one at a drive-in movie theater and another on a historic building’s rooftop.
Grassfire at Dromana Drive-In
Revellers at the Dromana drive-in experienced a frantic turn to their New Year’s celebrations when a nearby field caught fire just after midnight. Flames spread quickly through grassland near the Nepean Hwy. VicEmergency shared warning advice for locals, stating the grassfire was travelling in a northerly direction.
One attendee, celebrating with his children, believed the fireworks ignited the blaze, stating, “Great firework show, although the night was cut short by a fire that started as a result from the fireworks.” A large emergency response was observed at the scene, with locals sharing images and videos on social media.
The fire was subsequently brought under control, and VicEmergency later confirmed no active fires remained in the Dromana area.
Rooftop Fire at The Treasury
Earlier in the evening, at approximately 9:45 pm, emergency services were called to a fire on the roof of The Treasury building in Melbourne. Police reported the rooftop fire was suspected to have been caused by fireworks.
The fire at The Treasury was extinguished with minimal property damage, and no injuries were reported. Police have stated the incident is not being treated as suspicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time did the grassfire begin?
The grassfire near the Dromana drive-in began just after midnight.
Where did the second fire occur?
The second fire broke out on the roof of The Treasury building in Melbourne.
Was anyone injured in either fire?
No injuries were reported in connection with either the grassfire at Dromana or the rooftop fire at The Treasury.
Given these incidents, will local authorities review firework regulations for future public events?
