SMK recycling factory fire in Coolaroo ‘under control’

FIRE crews from across the country have helped contain a massive blaze at a factory in Coolaroo, but train commuters are still facing disruptions.

At its worst, the blaze forced nearby residents from their homes. Picture: Seven News

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VICTORIAN premier Daniel Andrews is on site at Coolaroo in Melbourne as firefighters have the fire at SMK recycling factory under control.

The fire began on Thursday, the fourth blaze on the premises since February, and involved the evacuation of 150 homes in Dallas, north of Melbourne’s CBD, on Thursday night.

Premier Andrews has been at the site this morning receiving updates from authorities.

#Coolaroo fire now under control.

— MFB (@MFB_NEWS) July 14, 2017

Smoke swirled in Dallas as the nearby Coolaroo recycling plant burned. Picture: Ian Currie

Commuters on the Upfield train line have suffered more delays this morning due to smoke haze.

“Train services are now resuming between North Melbourne and Upfield with minor delays after smoke from the nearby industrial fire in Coolaroo required the evacuation of Upfield railway station earlier today,” a Metro statement said.

“Listen for announcements as services may still be altered at short notice.”

Firefighters have been working to contain the fire for days. Picture: Nicole Garmston

The devastating fire began on Thursday. Picture: Seven News.

Fire crews from South Australia, New South Wales and the ACT travelled to Victoria overnight to assist fighting the blaze and have been seen on the site today.

Fire Rescue New South Wales sent ten firefighters with two tankers, as well as a firefighting robot.

The South Australian Metropolitan Fire Service also sent two tankers plus a logistics vehicle, with eight firefighters and an assistant.

The ACT Fire and Rescue has deployed two tankers and a command vehicle with seven firefighters.

The cause of the latest blaze is not yet known.

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