2018 Garvoc Fire
The Garvoc fire commenced on the evening of 17 March 2018 burning in excess of 4,000 hectares. The fire caused significant damage to residential and farming properties.
It is alleged that the fire was ignited as a result of the failure of a rotten timber power pole on Powercor’s electrical network.
Maddens Lawyers commenced class action proceedings against Powercor Australia Ltd in the Victorian Supreme Court on behalf of all persons who suffered property loss and damage, economic loss and/or personal injury (whether physical or psychological).
Powercor filed and served its Amended Defence on 22 February 2019, joining its pole inspection contractor, Electrix Pty Ltd, as a second defendant to the class action.
An in principle settlement was reached between the parties shortly following a mediation held in September 2019.