The community of Nambucca Heads is in mourning this week, after a fire destroyed its beloved sports club and generations of history.
Just before 6am on Wednesday (22 January) emergency services were summoned to the Nambucca Leagues & Sports Club (NLSC), arriving to find smoke and flame billowing out the full length of the roof.
“That made it a very challenging scene and very unlikely that we would be able to save the building,” explained Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell.
Over 30 firefighters battled the blaze, negotiating hazards such as gas cylinders, but there was little they could do, and in short time the roof collapsed. Six fire trucks and a helicopter stayed on site throughout the day to douse remaining pockets of flame, often inaccessible from the ground due to the structural collapse.
It was reported one person was inside the building, but they were able to get out and were treated for minor injuries at Coffs Harbour hospital.
Inspectors from NSW Police and FRNSW began investigating the scene for the cause of the fire, and inspector Darren Jameson says they canvassed neighbouring properties for statements, looking for witnesses and appealing for anybody who may have information on the incident.
The NLSC was established in 1982 in an existing building that was previously a bowling club. It has a legacy of supporting local cricket and football teams, displaying photos dating back seven decades. The club’s entire history was within, including memorabilia, accolades of life members, and former teams that won premierships.
It also incorporated a popular Chinese restaurant, and employed more than 20 people.
Nambucca Roosters director Peter Bellden told the ABC they were heartbroken.
“It’s all gone,” he said.
But Bellden is confident the Nambucca Heads community would be active in a recovery.
“We will bounce back and create new history, but it’s a bitter pill to swallow right now.”
Commissioner Fewtrell echoed the impact the tragedy would have on the town.
“Very sad circumstances with the loss of this great community facility.”
