General News
28 February, 2024
Arson investigation
ARSON investigators were called to investigate a fire at Simpson which razed the former Simpson Scout Hall.
The hall, located on Cobden-Lavers Hill Road, was not in use at the time of the fire and not connected to power.
A passing motorist reported the blaze, which was deemed to be suspicious, to CFA at 8.50pm last Tuesday.
The site was kept under police observation until arson investigators from Melbourne arrived on scene Wednesday afternoon.
District 6 assistant chief fire officer Andrew Emery said the fire was “suspicious”.
“The building was well enveloped when CFA attended,” he said.
“The CFA did a fantastic job.”
CFA brigades from Simpson, Timboon, Kennedys Creek and Cobden attended the fire, with CFA in attendance until about 2am.
Simpson CFA’s Alf Frith, who was the incident controller on the night, said he was the first CFA vehicle on scene.
“We could see the glow from the fire in town so we knew it was a significant fire,” he said.
“It was fully engulfed when we arrived.
“It wasn’t long before it collapsed in on itself.”
Mr Frith praised the efforts of CFA in attendance in helping to control the fire which was surrounded by large trees, grass and scrub.
“The firefighters efforts were well coordinated and a great effort by all,” he said.
