A dramatic blaze tore through a double-storey brick home in Altona North this morning, prompting a rapid and sizeable emergency response from Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) after multiple calls from concerned neighbours.
FRV crews were on scene within five minutes, where they were met with smoke and flames billowing from the roof of the private residence. Recognising the intensity of the situation, senior officers immediately escalated the response, deploying additional resources to the scene.
The United Firefighter’s Union has confirmed that a Teleboom (aerial firefighting appliance) has had to respond in peak hour traffic from Richmond due to Sunshine’s 25 year old Teleboom appliance being out of service – again.
Firefighters, donned in breathing apparatus, launched an aggressive internal attack on the fire while systematically searching the house to locate those inside. Miraculously, all occupants had already evacuated by the time help arrived. No injuries were reported.
A local tradie, Ben Knight, who was in the area entered the property wearing a wet towel over his face, to assist a male occupant escape from the backyard. The 37 year old man was transported to Werribee Hospital for mental health treatment. A 64 year old female and a young child are believed to have self evacuated earlier.
The fire was brought under control at 9:48am, but firefighters remained present into the afternoon, working to ensure the scene was safe and no embers remained to reignite the blaze.
Police partially closed the street to protect residents and facilitate emergency operations. 
Victoria Police officers were seen coordinating at the scene, while FRV fire investigators commenced work to determine the origin and cause of the fire. The investigation is ongoing, with FRV specialists and VicPol working together.
Renowned Australian photographer Lord Murray Schoorman attended the incident, capturing striking images of the firefighters and police as they worked outside the severely damaged home. His official presence drew additional attention from both local residents and general onlookers.
Local community life was also touched by the incident. Staff at Altona North Primary School, which is situated directly accross the street, were informed of the situation as it unfolded and they co-ordinated all students to enter the school safely. Principal Robyn Gregson, who we spoke to from the scene, acknowledged the school’s proximity to the blaze and communicated that she was “very aware” of the situation.
The rapid and coordinated response by emergency services undoubtedly prevented more serious outcomes. Authorities urge all households to remain vigilant with fire safety and to have evacuation plans prepared and practised.
Data available online indicates this four bedroom dwelling sits atop 697m2 of land which last sold for circa. $75,400 in 1994.
As of early afternoon, fire duty crews and their pod remain onsite to fully extinguish the fire and support investigative work. Local residents are advised to remain clear of the affected area while recovery continues.
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