Up to 100 cryogenic cylinders of cattle semen have been destroyed in a factory fire at Yarram overnight.
Firefighters were called to the Yarram Herd Services building on Rodgers Street about 3am on Tuesday following reports of large explosions.
CFA District 10 commander Chris Loeschenkohl said the factory was fully engulfed by flames when firefighters arrived on scene.
"There were explosions coming from within the factory with one or two projectiles existing the factory," Mr Loeschenkohl said.
"So crews went into defensive firefighting mode, essentially protecting the neighbouring factories where there were approximately 100 LPG cylinders stored.
"Once the explosions had settled down inside, firefighters went on an aggressive firefight to contain the fire within the building."
The not-for-profit organisation provides artificial insemination and herd testing services to the Yarram district.
It took about 45 minutes and 40 firefighters to control the blaze which completely destroyed the factory.
"It's gone, there's nothing salvageable," Mr Loeschenkohl said.
Fire investigators will visit the scene today to determine the cause of the blaze.
Bryce Eishold
Bryce is a senior journalist with Australian Community Media's Stock & Land where he reports on all aspects of agriculture. Bryce is also the president of the Rural Press Club of Victoria. Email Bryce at bryce.eishold@stockandland.com.au.
Bryce is a senior journalist with Australian Community Media's Stock & Land where he reports on all aspects of agriculture. Bryce is also the president of the Rural Press Club of Victoria. Email Bryce at bryce.eishold@stockandland.com.au.
