Emergency warning issued after blaze at Perth battery recycling facility

 Emergency warning issued after blaze at Perth battery recycling facility - ABC News

Emergency fire at Maddington battery recycling facility — key points

Takeaway: A major lithium‑ion battery fire in Maddington triggered a HAZMAT emergency warning, caused significant damage to the facility, and disrupted nearby transport routes.

🔥 What happened

• A serious fire broke out at the Li‑ion Energy battery recycling facility on Burwash Place, Maddington, around 1:45pm.

• Potentially hazardous smoke prompted a HAZMAT emergency warning just before 3pm.

• The fire involved around 80 tonnes of lithium‑ion solid‑state batteries, creating intense heat and difficult conditions for firefighters.

🚒 Emergency response

• Up to 50 firefighters from multiple stations responded, supported by WA Police, St John Ambulance, and the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation.

• Crews attempted an internal attack but quickly switched to an external containment strategy due to the fire’s intensity.

• Fire suppression is expected to continue for hours into the night.

👥 Injuries

• One man was taken to Fiona Stanley Hospital with suspected smoke inhalation.

• Another person was treated at the scene.

🏭 Impact on the business

• The business owner estimates over $7 million in lost goods, plus building damage.

• The company is only two years old, and the owner says recovery will be difficult.

🚧 Transport disruptions

• Armadale train line closed between Cannington and Gosnells on Sunday afternoon.

• Albany Highway closed between River Avenue and Stokely Creek Crossing.

🌫️ Safety advice for locals

• DFES advises people in the area to:

  • Stay indoors

  • Keep doors and windows closed

  • Turn air‑conditioners off to avoid drawing in smoke

Mary Carroll Park $3.5m upgrades completed as new hand carved archway and prime viewing bench installed

 Mary Carroll Park $3.5m upgrades completed as new hand carved archway and prime viewing bench installed | PerthNow

🌿 Key Takeaways

• Final upgrades completed at Mary Carroll Park, marking the end of a $3.5m redevelopment project.

• A new hand‑carved timber archway and double‑sided viewing bench have been installed as the final additions.

• The archway features artwork by Noongar artists Gertrina Hayden and Tamara Hayden.

• The bench is designed for dual use:

  • One side faces the wetlands for wildlife viewing

  • The other frames the water for photo opportunities

• Mayor Terresa Lynes highlights the park as a place to connect with local biodiversity, including migratory birds.

• The broader project includes:

  • Gosnells’ largest all‑abilities playground (gilgie structure, six‑seasons spinners, flying fox)

  • Pedestrian bridge across the wetlands

  • Accessible toilets and changerooms

  • Picnic areas and a community yarning circle

  • Concrete paths around the causeway for improved accessibility (prams, wheelchairs)

🧭 What This Means for the Community

• The upgrades significantly improve accessibility, cultural representation, and visitor experience.

• The new viewing area strengthens the park’s role as a birdwatching and nature‑connection spot.

• The project blends environmental appreciation, Noongar cultural elements, and family‑friendly recreation.