Christmas Day blaze that destroyed CFS Training Centre in South-East under investigation

The cause of a $500k Christmas Day fire that destroyed a regional CFS training centre is under investigation – as volunteers vow to rebuild it.

The cause of a Christmas Day blaze that destroyed a CFS regional training centre north of Naracoorte in the state’s South-East remains under investigation.

Local CFS crews were called to a fire at their own regional training facility centre on Menhennits Road, Wild Dog Valley, about 1.30pm on December 25.

Firefighters arrived to find parts of the building, used as a training shed for crews learning how to use breathing apparatus, engulfed in flames.

The fire at the CFS training centre near Naracoorte on Christmas Day. Picture: Country Fire Service

Firefighters tackle the blaze at the regional CFS training centre.

Four CFS crews using a bulk water carrier with the help of about 17 CFS volunteers managed to fully extinguish the blaze.

The structure and contents of the training centre were completely destroyed, however the nearby shed and transportable building were saved.

The total damages and losses resulting from the blaze are estimated to be at least $500,000.

The blaze destroyed a large amount of training equipment such as smoke machines used to simulate training environments, jet waves heaters, furniture and a TV.

The CFS has begun the process of an insurance claim.

The Christmas Day blaze completely destroyed the structure and contents of the Training Centre resulting in at least $500,000 worth of damage.

“The CFS wishes to acknowledge the considerable efforts and professionalism of the local crews who responded to the incident, recognising the fond memories many of them held for the centre,” CFS Region Five commander Jason Druwitt said.

“Despite the challenging situation, crews were able to save another shed and transportable building on the site.”

CFS crews responding to a structure fire at Wild Dog Valley (Naracoorte) on Christmas Day. Picture: Country Fire Service.

Mr Druwitt also thanked fire crews and their families, saying it was the second year in a row the Naracoorte Group had to respond to a significant incident on Christmas Day.

In 2022, crews, volunteers had their Christmas celebrations interrupted when emergency services raced to respond to a suspicious fire that engulfed and ultimately destroyed local business Naracoorte Motorcycles and Mowers.

Talks to restore the centre to full operation have already started among the CFS and volunteers.

“The CFS and our members are enthusiastic to see the centre back in full operation with talks already underway,” Mr Druwitt said.

“Over the years, local CFS members have banded together to further develop the centre, conducting working bees and undertaking regular maintenance.

“Whilst considered a local treasure, the centre had also been used by CFS members from across the state, as well as other emergency services.”

Originally published as Christmas Day blaze that destroyed CFS Training Centre in South-East under investigation