Storage facility fire: More than 40 firefighters called to blaze on Parkside Dr, Tweed Heads South

More than 40 firefighters were called to tackle a not-for-profit processing and packing facility blaze in the Tweed, which continues to be monitored. Watch what happened.

More than 40 firefighters and eight trucks were called to tackle a major charity building blaze at Tweed Heads South, which continues to be monitored on Wednesday.

Fire and Rescue NSW was called to the massive fire at the Clean Tea/Synergy Group premises on Parkside Dr just before 8pm on Tuesday.

The processing and packing facility – which was used to provide job opportunities for people with permanent disabilities – burned to the ground.

“The fire initially impacted three storage units and a mezzanine platform before strong winds fanned flames through the entire structure, destroying all 28 storage units and two commercial premises,” Fire and Rescue NSW said.

Firefighters were called to the fire on Tuesday night and continue to monitor the scene on Wednesday. Picture: Fire and Rescue NSW

“A large amount of household items, including highly flammable LPG cylinders, were being stored inside the units and fuelling the inferno.

“An exclusion zone was set up as the fire began to rapidly expand and the roof and external walls started collapsing.

“A neighbouring truck yard also came under threat, with several trailers having to be relocated, while factories and shops in nearby streets were forced to close due to heavy smoke drifting towards them.”

Fire crews were able to bring the fire under control by midnight and “continued to attack the blaze throughout the night, with significant help from a QFES (Queensland Fire and Emergency Services) aerial platform fire truck”.

No injuries have been reported.

On Wednesday, firefighters have been dousing hot spots, with Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), or drones, helping crews inspect rubble.

Investigators will begin examining the site and attempt to determine what sparked the fire once it is completely out.

The blaze was manageable before midnight. Picture: Fire and Rescue NSW

The emergency response involved firefighters from across the Tweed, including Murwillumbah and Kingscliff, as well as firefighters from over the Queensland-NSW border.

NSW Ambulance paramedics, Tweed-Byron Police District officers and Essential Energy also attended.

A fire truck on scene. Picture: Fire and Rescue NSW

Clean Tea is owned by not-for-profit Synergy Group (Challenge Tweed Inc).

The organisation states online: “Our team of talented individuals living with a disability are empowered by the ownership and shared pride in our Clean Tea brand, creating an inspiring sense of purpose and achievement.”

“We focus is on the individual’s abilities, and our vision is to inspire people of all abilities to achieve a career,” a statement reads.