What happened at the Harcourt Cooperative Cool Stores?

A major fire recently destroyed the Harcourt Cooperative Cool Stores, a vital facility for local producers in Victoria.

Which businesses were affected by the Harcourt Cool Stores fire?

Wineries, craft brewers, boutique producers, and apple growers lost stock, equipment, and ingredients in the fire.

How is the community responding to the Harcourt Cool Stores disaster?

The community is rallying to support the affected businesses, emphasizing local patronage and organizing fundraising efforts.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Harcourt Cool Stores Blaze: Wineries & Brewers Face Devastation

Harcourt Cool Stores Blaze: Wineries & Brewers Face Devastation

11 Jan

•

Summary

Harcourt Cooperative Cool Stores, vital for local producers, was destroyed by fire.
Numerous wineries, brewers, and boutique producers lost stock, equipment, and ingredients.
The community is rallying to support affected businesses, emphasizing local patronage.

Harcourt Cool Stores Blaze: Wineries & Brewers Face Devastation

A devastating fire has swept through the Harcourt Cooperative Cool Stores, a facility that has served local businesses since 1917. The inferno destroyed the premises, which housed essential cold storage for approximately 85 customers, including wineries, brewers, and boutique producers.

This catastrophic event has resulted in the loss of vast amounts of liquid stock, ingredients, packaging, and specialized equipment. For many, including fifth-generation apple grower Trevor Peeler, the Cool Stores represented more than just a business; it was a community hub where strong friendships were forged. Winemakers and brewers have expressed deep distress over losing not only current stock but also irreplaceable, aged products and unique aging systems.