NORLANE FIRE DRAMA

POLICE are investigating a suspicious fire that destroyed a Norlane home on Saturday afternoon.

Emergency services were called to the blaze at Rose Ave just before 3pm.

Neighbours congregated in the street outside the smouldering home as firefighters worked on the blaze.

Police spoke to several bystanders, including a man wearing a Richmond top who bore a striking resemblance to Tigers premiership champion and Brownlow medallist Dustin Martin.

A witness told the Geelong Advertiser two men were arguing outside the home shortly before the blaze.

He said the home was “completely engulfed” by flames and was destroyed in a matter of minutes.

“I’ve never seen anything like it,” the witness said.

A man was stretchered from the property by ambulance officers several hours after the blaze.

Emergency services said the man, 41, was treated for smoke inhalation.

He was taken to Geelong hospital about 6pm in a serious but stable condition.

Two dogs were also taken from the residence by the Geelong City Animal Management with the help of police.

Police said no arrests had been made or charges laid late yesterday.

The fire was the latest in a string of incidents on Rose Ave.

A man allegedly in possession of two explosive devices, a tomahawk, knives, knuckledusters and drugs was intercepted along Rose Ave in October last year.

And another home on the avenue was severely damaged in a blaze last August.

Geelong Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating Saturday’s fire and appeal for anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.