Smoke and ash falling in Brisbane, as large paper factory burns
A major situation is unfolding in Brisbane this afternoon, after a paper and cardboard factory caught on fire.
It’s understood the blaze started in the suburb of Hemmant around 3.00pm, with the factory quickly engulfed.
Smoke can be seen right across the city, as multiple crews attempt to fight the blaze.
16 Fire and Rescue Service crews, specialist vehicles and senior officers are currently on scene at a commercial structure fire in Hemmant. Please avoid the area if you can. pic.twitter.com/QwB4Zix4XS
— Qld Fire & Emergency (@QldFES) December 16, 2020
Paramedics are currently on standby, with no serious injuries reported just yet.
QAS Officer in Charge Paige Harris is on scene, and says there are a number of commercial structures involved.
“Several large commercial structure are engulfed with fire here, and it’s causing quite a lot of smoke by product and ash falling in the area.
“It’s a recycling plant, just large commercial structures, it’s quite a large area, spanning approximately one block size.
“We’ve got all emergency services, there’s quite a large response from Queensland Fire and Rescue that are here on site, dealing with and managing the fire.

PHOTO | QFES
People are being urged to avoid the area and keep windows and doors closed and most importantly to call Triple Zero (000) if they are experiencing ANY respiratory concerns or breathing difficulties.