Fire destroys Morwell Bowling Club in Gippsland

More than 50 firefighters have battled a massive fire at a much-loved bowls club in Gippsland.

A huge fire has seriously damaged a beloved regional Victorian bowls club.

More than 50 firefighters were called to the Morwell Bowling Club about 12.30am on Tuesday to find a large part of the community club ablaze.

Fire crews across 20 vehicles eventually brought the fire at the club under control at 3.20am.

Part of the building collapsed in the nearly three hours it took firefighters to contain the flames.

“The response, in its early stages, was hampered by a lack of water supply in the area,” a Fire Rescue Victoria spokesperson said.

“Extra CFA tankers responded to provide more water and breathing apparatus crews.

“The blaze caused extensive damage and resulted in a building collapse of the 80m by 20m facility.”

Fire broke out at the Morwell Bowls Club about 12.30am Tuesday. Picture: Supplied

More than 50 firefighters battled the blaze. Picture: Supplied

The club has operated since 1913.

The cause of the fire was unclear on Tuesday morning but authorities were not treating it as suspicious.

The massive blaze has destroyed the Morwell Bowling Club. Picture: Jack Colantuono

Tributes for the beloved institution poured in on social media.

The Gippsland Motorcyclists Toy Run, which has supported local families in need at Christmas for a quarter of a century, said the Morwell Bowls Club had raised money for them every year.

“This organisation is a staunch supporter of many clubs and charities in our region and has been with us for the entire 25 years,” a Toy Run representative wrote.

“We cannot express enough sorrow for your loss and we are sure that the strength and resilience you have shown establishing the proud heritage that is the Morwell Bowling Club will help you re-establish it.”

It’s hoped the club will recover. Picture: Jack Colantuono

Fire crews were remained at the scene for several hours on Tuesday to make sure the blaze had been fully extinguished.

Newborough woman Tracie Vammps, 47, said the bowling club was “extremely popular” for locals.

“It was an incredible place — perfect for family get togethers, especially if you haven’t seen your family members in a while,” Ms Vammps said.

A massive blaze has destroyed the Morwell Bowling Club. Picture: Jack Colantuono

“I have been to the bowling club on the occasion and the staff always provide a good meal and service.

“The club has been around forever - it is an icon of Morwell.

“Anyone I know that travels through Latrobe Valley would stop there, whether it was for lunch, dinner or a coffee.”

Ms Vammps said she still couldn’t believe the “tragic news”.

“It’s truly a shock. That’s years — and we are talking years — of memories lost,” she said.

“I wish the team all the best with the recovery and rebuild.”