Surf club rallies to help Sugar Road Tyre and Mechanical after fire
Support is building behind a much-loved mechanic who lost his beloved dog and his entire workshop in a fire, with the hunt on to find him a new premises.
Sunshine Coast
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Sunshine Coast community members have rallied behind a long-time mechanic who lost his workshop and his dog in a devastating fire earlier this month.
Sugar Road Tyre and Mechanical burnt down in the afternoon on August 19, completely gutting the building and destroying equipment.
Owner Anthony Neilson said he had been home at the time and received a call from his mate, asking him if he knew his own shed was on fire.
This prompted him to quickly call triple-0 and he hopped in his car, arriving in time to let fire crews inside.
He said seeing his workshop of 20 years go up in flames was devastating and emotional.
His dog Kouta, who stayed every night in the premises, did not survive the blaze.
The fire had been caused by a back-up battery that powers his computers and security system, Mr Neilson said.
He estimated to have lost several hundred thousand dollars in damages.
Alexandra Headland Surf Life Saving Club president Sam Archer has since called out to the community to give Mr Neilson a helping hand.
Mr Neilson has been a club member for the past 20 years, often sponsoring the club and servicing their vehicles.
Mr Neilson said the help given to him had been immense.
The club spread the word and handed out club vouchers to Mr Neilson and his staff, who have all been unable to work since the incident.
The surf club reached out to its members with hopes to find the business some temporary premises while Mr Neilson works to rebuild his workshop.
Appropriate premises would be 200sq m in a light industrial zone with five-metre clearance.
Anyone who can assist has been advised to contact the surf club.
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