On 16 January 2026, ABC News reported on a fast-moving grassfire in Rockbank, Melbourne, Victoria, that burnt a tyre pile and other debris in a paddock near Paynes Road, moving toward a nearby housing estate
Several firefighting units from the Country Fire Authority (CFA) and Fire Rescue Victoria worked to contain the blaze in Melbourne, together with aircraft assets. Authorities declared the fire under control the same day, with no injuries reported. ABC News reports that a 29-year-old man was taken into custody nearby and should be interviewed as part of the investigation into the incident.
Aerial footage from the scene showed tyres and other debris in flames as the fire blackened the paddock. Residents were warned to expect smoke to be visible throughout the day and urged to follow updates from official emergency channels.
Tyre Stewardship Australia (TSA) highlighted this fire incident as a clear example of the risks associated with poor storage practices and tyre stockpiles. TSA noted that tyres generate dense and toxic smoke when burning, and can be very difficult to fully extinguish, which poses prolonged challenges for firefighters and potential health and environmental issues for nearby communities.
The TSA described this tyre pile fire as a “stark reminder” of poorly managed and stockpiled tyres, especially in regions prone to dry climates and fires.
