Korumburra newsagent destroyed by fire, but resident cat safe

A fire has destroyed a much loved Gippsland business, with residents fearing for the safety of a moggy living in the shop.

A fire has destroyed a newsagency in the Gippsland town of Korumburra, but a beloved cat who lives in the shop is safe.

The CFA was called to reports of a fire on Commercial St just after 7pm Sunday, with the newsagency engulfed in flames.

Crews found flames coming through the roof at the rear of the premises but managed to prevent the fire from spreading to buildings next door.

Ten CFA vehicles responded to the fire with help from Fire Rescue Victoria, with police and Ambulance Victoria also in attendance.

Fire has destroyed a newsagent in Korumburra.

The fire was extinguished by 9.30pm.

However, the misfortune didn’t stop once the blaze was extinguished for the Korumburra Fire Brigade. They discovered an e-flare used to block off access to the burning property had been stolen. They are urging the person who took it to return it to the police station.

Concerns for a cat residing at the shop were expressed on social media, but others reported that the cat was safe and sound.

Victoria Police said the fire was being treated as non-suspicious and fire investigators will attend the scene to determine a cause.

Bayswater Fire Brigade, Leongatha Fire Brigade, Ruby Fire Brigade and Wonthaggi CFA all supported the Korumburra Fire Brigade at the blaze.