At 10am on Tuesday morning, firefighters were called to control a fire at Merewether’s historic Burwood Inn.
The first was contained within half an hour and extinguished just after noon, but not without extensive damage to the hotel. The blaze began in the kitchen, and subsequently spread to the restaurant, bar, beer garden and storage areas. Luckily, the accommodation and neighbouring properties were unaffected, and there does not appear to be any major structural damage.
There have been no reports of injuries, and firefighters were able to evacuate 15 people, with two others managing to self-evacuate.
Inspector Guy Lightfoot from Fire and Rescue NSW said fire crews acted quickly and effectively.
“Nine fire trucks attended and upon arrival fire crews entered the structure and made an offensive attack on the fire and gained control. The prompt fire attack contained the blaze to the kitchen and restaurant area and saved the hotel,” Lightfoot commented.
Operators Sandra and Tony Dart are understandably devastated by the news, as they expressed in a post to the Burwood Inn Facebook page.
“All staff are safe and well, just all devastated. Will let you know more later, but for now, the Burwood Inn is closed until further notice,” the post read.
The event has seen an outpouring of support from the community, businesses and local sports teams.
NSW Police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the blaze.