Kitchen Grease Fire Damages Food Court

October 15, 2024

Fire crews observed significant fire activity spreading through the food court kitchen exhaust system at Sydney’s Circular Quay, with large volumes of black smoke billowing from the premises.

A fire in a kitchen restaurant has caused significant damage to a food court in Circular Quay in Sydney overnight.

Sixteen fire trucks and more than 60 firefighters responded to the incident following numerous Triple Zero (000) calls about the blaze in Gateway Sydney just after 9.00pm.

On arrival, crews observed significant fire activity spreading through the flue (exhaust system) in a kitchen of one of the eateries, with large volumes of black smoke issuing from the premises.

Firefighters quickly got to work and contained the fire within about two and half hours, according to Fire NSW.

A number of people were evacuated from the premises and there were no reported injuries.

After the fire was extinguished, crews remained on scene to mop up, removing smoke and water from the building.

Grease hood cleaning tips that help minimise risk

Tip One – Due Your Homework

Engaging a reputable kitchen exhaust cleaning contractor is key to getting what you need and what you are ultimately paying for. It also ensures that you comply in terms of insurance and reduces your risk of fire. We have put together a handy checklist to make things a little easier.

Tip Two – Minimise Risk

Grease and oil build-up starts at the metal kitchen grease filters before being extracted into the hood, ducting, fan and eventually, the roof.

At best, these metal kitchen grease filters only capture between 20-40% of airborne grease, leading to a hazardous build-up that needs to be cleaned off on a regular basis in order to stay compliant and covered by insurance. It’s an ongoing problem that needed an easy and cost-effective solution.

Shepherd Filters capture up to an impressive 98% of grease before it even has the chance to penetrate the rest of the kitchen exhaust system.

Made from 100% bio-degradable and fire-retardant wool, you can rely on Shepherd Filters to ensure your system stays cleaner for longer: