Suspected arson fire at Rocherlea substation cuts power to 1500 homes in Tasmania

Vandals are reported to have set fire to a mattress placed next to an electrical substation at Rocherlea, in northern Tasmania, on a Sunday afternoon. The fire caused extensive damage to the substation and left approximately 1500 customers in Launceston's northern suburbs without power on a cold day. The operator, TasNetworks, described the act as deeply reckless and appealed to the public for information that might lead to an arrest and conviction. No injuries were reported. The company noted that the resulting repair costs would ultimately be borne by customers through network charges. Tasmania Police and Crimestoppers were named as points of contact for anyone with information, with an offence report number issued for the case.

A fire, suspected to have been deliberately started by unidentified individuals who placed a burning mattress next to the substation, caused damage sufficient to interrupt supply; the substation appears to have been accessible enough for the fire to spread to equipment.

1. Physical security measures such as fencing, lighting and surveillance around substations can deter opportunistic vandalism and arson.
2. Network operators should have rapid public communication and reporting channels ready to encourage community tips after vandalism incidents.
3. Utilities should assess the fire risk posed by combustible materials or waste being left near critical electrical infrastructure and consider clearance zones or monitoring.

esdnews.com.au/vandals-spark-fire-at-substation-in-tasmania