Launceston’s Tamar Marine Devastated by Major Fire
A significant fire has devastated Launceston’s Tamar Marine, a family-run boating business that served the community for over 40 years. The incident occurred shortly after midnight on Wednesday, resulting in damage estimated at more than $5 million.
Details of the Fire Incident
The fire broke out at Tamar Marine, located on West Tamar Road in Riverside, engulfing the building and parts of neighboring businesses, including Almasts Australia and an adjoining slipway warehouse.
- Time of Incident: Shortly after midnight on Wednesday.
- Damage Estimate: Over $5 million.
- Firefighters Deployed: 30 firefighters responded to the scene.
- Initial Emergency Call: 12:02 am.
- Duration of Battle: Approximately two hours.
- Access Issues: Extremely low availability of mains water hampered firefighting efforts.
Emergency Response
Firefighters arrived within three minutes to find a large portion of Tamar Marine on fire, with flames visible from the second storey. Due to water shortages, crews resorted to pumping water directly from the Tamar River.
Impact on the Community
For over four decades, Tamar Marine has been a cornerstone for Launceston’s fishing and boating community, specializing in marine equipment. Established in 1979, the business had built a loyal customer base that heavily relied on its services.
West Tamar Road, between Margaret Street and Forest Road, was closed for about four hours as emergency services worked at the scene. All roads reopened by 4 am, and fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Investigation Underway
The Tasmania Fire Service and Tasmania Police are conducting a joint investigation into the cause of the fire. Fire investigators are scheduled to examine the site from Thursday morning onwards, and authorities encourage anyone with pertinent information to come forward.
This fire marks a somber moment for the local community, as they bid farewell to a long-standing family-operated business that has played an essential role in Launceston’s maritime activities.
