Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) crews are currently battling a significant fire at the Nambucca Heads Leagues and Sports Club, on the state’s mid-north coast.
Just before 6am today, crews responded to multiple Triple Zero (000) calls to an alarm activating, with fire and smoke inside the building in Sports Street.
On arrival, firefighters were met with intense fire activity and got to work to control the blaze.
Around 40 firefighters and nine fire trucks, including an aerial ladder platform, are on scene, working to restrict the blaze. Their efforts have been complicated by several large gas cylinders exposed to the flames, and significant roof and structural collapse.
Firefighters have encountered challenges with water supply, and have accessed additional hydrants, relaying water from truck to truck to the scene. Crews are expected to remain on site for an extended period as they work to extinguish the fire.
One occupant escaped to safety and and is being treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics.
Devastating loss for community
FRNSW Commissioner, Jeremy Fewtrell, was travelling through the area, visiting fire stations and offices when the blaze broke out. He has been assisting firefighting operations at the scene.
‘Crews from across the Mid North coast faced significant risks, including a well-developed fire, structural collapse, and the presence of gas cylinders,’ Commissioner Fewtrell said.
‘Our crews initially entered the building to attack the fire internally, but retreated as the building began to collapse, prioritising the safety of firefighters while continuing operations from the outside.
‘This has been a devastating loss for the Nambucca Heads community, with the destruction of a much-loved local facility. Firefighters worked tirelessly under extremely challenging conditions to protect life and property and contain the blaze,’ he said.
‘Thank you to all emergency services involved including the NSW Rural Fire Service, NSW Police, and NSW Ambulance, for their collaboration and support’.
The cause of the fire is not yet known.
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