Police and Council Call for Community Assistance After Devastating Speers Point Fire

5 December 2024

Authorities and Lake Macquarie City Council are appealing for public assistance following a fire that caused millions of dollars in damage to the Speers Point Administrative Centre in the early hours of Wednesday, 27 November 2024.

The fire broke out at approximately 3.50am, prompting an emergency response to the council building on Main Road, Speers Point. Fire and Rescue NSW crews worked tirelessly to extinguish the blaze, but the building sustained extensive damage, leaving it temporarily unusable. Fortunately, the building was unoccupied at the time, and no injuries were reported.

Detectives from the Lake Macquarie Police District and the State Crime Command’s Arson Unit are conducting investigations under Strike Force Komiatum. Preliminary inquiries have identified two individuals in the area around the time of the fire. CCTV footage captured outside the building has been handed over to police, and they are urging anyone with information or dashcam footage from the area between 2am and 4.30am on 27 November to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz commended the efforts of emergency responders and called for community support in identifying those responsible. “We’re grateful for the bravery of first responders in containing the fire and for the hard work of NSW Police in advancing this investigation,” he said.

Council CEO Morven Cameron added that the council is in regular contact with detectives, providing all necessary assistance to the investigation. “We are also working with our insurers on the complex task of assessing the damage and developing a recovery plan,” she said. “We look forward to sharing more updates as they come to light.”

The damage to the Administrative Centre has significantly disrupted operations. Staff have transitioned to working from home while council services, apart from the impacted Customer Service Centre, continue as usual. The public has been thanked for their patience during this period, as the council works to restore services as swiftly as possible.

The fire has left a lasting impact on the community, with Mayor Shultz reinforcing the importance of public cooperation. “If you saw anything or have footage from the area, even if it seems insignificant, please contact Crime Stoppers. Your help could be vital in solving this case.”