Emergency services responded to a significant fire at a Lake Macquarie educational institution on Wednesday evening, with the incident now under police scrutiny as potentially deliberate.
Firefighters Battle Blaze at School Property
NSW Rural Fire Service crews were dispatched to Avondale School in Cooranbong at approximately 7:30pm on January 21 after reports of a structure alight. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered an old shed that was fully engulfed in flames, with the fire posing a direct threat to a neighbouring building on the school grounds.
Ten fire appliances were deployed to the scene, where crews worked diligently to bring the intense blaze under control. Their efforts successfully protected the adjacent structure from damage, and no injuries were reported among students, staff, or emergency personnel.
Building Destroyed, Scene Handed to Police
The old building, described as a shed located on the edge of the school property, was completely destroyed by the fire. After extinguishing the main blaze, the Rural Fire Service handed the scene over to police for investigation, officially declaring the fire as suspicious in nature.
Firefighters were required to return to the location later to address a small re-ignition, which was promptly dealt with without further incident.
School Operations Continue Uninterrupted
In an official statement, Avondale School administration confirmed that the fire had been quickly contained and extinguished by emergency services. The school emphasised that there was no impact on students, staff, or other school buildings, with normal operations continuing without disruption.
"We thank fire and emergency services for their prompt response," the school statement read, acknowledging the swift action that prevented further damage.
Police Launch Investigation into Cause
New South Wales police have commenced a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fire. Authorities are treating the blaze as suspicious and are conducting ongoing inquiries to determine the exact cause and origin of the fire that destroyed the school building.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of fire safety on school properties and the critical role emergency services play in protecting community infrastructure.
