Multiple gas leaks within a block of each other in Castlemaine CBD in recent days are the subject of an investigation aimed at identifying the cause.
CFA units from Castlemaine and Campbells Creek attended following reports of a gas leak shortly after 8am on Thursday morning at the old fire station building – now operating as a cafe – in Templeton Street.
While the cafe was able to quickly return to normal operations, investigators were still in the area attempting to establish a possible cause when another possible gas leak was reported about two hours later at a childcare provider in Templeton Street.
Both had followed the temporary evacuation of the Castlemaine library – situated within a block of the other two locations – six days earlier due to a detected gas leak there as well.
Castlemaine CFA captain Terry Franklin and Castlemaine communications officer Ron Gartside said it was possible the gas leaks might be related to each other with contractor firm Downer investigating.
“Downer are testing the whole area to determine the cause and whether they’re connected or not,” Mr Franklin said.
“We won’t know whether they’re connected or not until they’ve done their full investigation.”
Mr Gartside said it was understood that the three sites where the leaks had been detected were on the same gas line.
Mr Franklin took the opportunity to warn people also about conducting illegal burn-offs after the local CFA and police attended two illegal, unregistered burn-offs in Castlemaine over the past week.
“They were at properties in Duke Street and Ross Drive over the last week,” Mr Franklin said.
“CFA and police have attended and people can be prosecuted.
“Fire restrictions are still in force so anyone wanting to carry out a burn-off must get a permit.
“Police will attend if they haven’t obtained a permit or called the burn notification line prior to conducting a burn.”
The Fire Danger Period for Mount Alexander Shire ends at 1am on March 29.
Residents are asked to continue to register burn-offs, check weather conditions and follow local council laws and regulations. Landowners can now register their burn-off online at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au
