Tassal fish hatchery plant hit by $400k fire in switchboard room

The fire was contained to the switchboard room of the hatchery, Tasmanian Fire Service district officer Neil Brooksbank said. 

“Quick firefighting actions by the responding brigades ensued the fire was contained to the switchboard room of the hatchery limiting the fire damage to a switchboard in the main switchboard room,” he said.

“Due to the complexity of the fire and the live electrical system, power was isolated to the Ranelagh area for a short period in order to facilitate firefighting operations.”

A failed electrical conductor in the switchboard was deemed the cause of the fire. 

Crews from Huonville, Upper Huon, Franklin and Grove responded to the fire. 

The incident was reported about 4am.