The Pomborneit bushfire commenced on the south side of the Princes Highway just east of the Weerite overpass as a consequence of clashing high voltage conductors, between poles 927 and 928. Burning aluminium particles caused by the arcing were blown by expulsion forces and the wind across the Princes Highway to ignite dry grass. The conductors were slack, poles leaned and no spreader bars had been inserted between conductors so as to ensure that they remained apart. There is ample evidence that similar clashing had occurred over decades.
Maddens Lawyers has issued a class action in the Supreme Court at Warrnambool.
To view a copy of the Statement of Claim and Defence in the matter Terrence Ernest Place v Powercor Australia Limited (ACN 064 651 109) please click on the following links:
STATEMENT OF CLAIM
DEFENCE