On 18 November, members of the Young Pipeliners Forum (YPF) were given an exclusive opportunity to explore the Viva Energy Corio Refinery in Geelong, gaining firsthand insight into the operations, innovations, and evolving sustainability initiatives shaping one of Australia’s most significant refining facilities.
The day began with the participants travelling from Melbourne on the Van Leeuwen and Denso sponsored bus, arriving at the refinery for an introductory briefing delivered by Viva personnel. The session provided an overview of the refinery’s function within the national energy supply chain, including fuel production, processing capabilities, and long-term operational strategy.
A key focus of the presentation centred on Viva Energy’s commitment to environmental improvement and circular-economy principles. Attendees learned about the company’s efforts to repurpose waste products such as used cooking oil and single-use plastics, converting them into viable feedstocks for the production of fuels and polymers. These initiatives are part of a broader program aimed at reducing waste, lowering emissions, and improving the overall sustainability profile of the facility.
Following the briefing, participants boarded a Viva-operated bus for an extensive guided tour of the refinery precinct. The tour offered a close-up look at major processing areas and infrastructure, with detailed commentary provided by Viva staff. Throughout the drive, attendees were encouraged to ask questions, resulting in an engaging and informative discussion about refining technology, safety systems, and the challenges associated with transitioning to more sustainable operations.
The tour concluded back in the meeting facility, where YPF members participated in a dedicated Q&A session followed by lunch. This final segment allowed participants to further explore technical topics, discuss career pathways, and reflect on the role of refineries in Australia’s changing energy landscape.
The YPF extends its appreciation to Viva Energy for hosting the visit and to Van Leeuwen and Denso for their generous support in providing transport for the group. The tour offered invaluable insight for early-career professionals and highlighted the importance of ongoing engagement between industry operators and the next generation of pipeline and energy sector leaders.