Published on 01 February 2024
A statement from Mayor Jenna Davey-Burns regarding fires in Chelsea overnight:
It was extremely disappointing and frustrating to wake to news of the Bonbeach St Chads Baseball Clubhouse and playground in Bicentennial Park being severely damaged in suspected arson attacks overnight.
Fortunately, there were no injuries or fatalities as a result of this completely reckless, thoughtless and dangerous behaviour, but unfortunately it appears the Blue Jays and the broader community will be impacted for an extended period of time, which is very upsetting.
We know how loved the park and playground are by locals and visitors alike and the baseball club are a great group who are certainly feeling sad today.
A big thanks to the firies for their great work to limit the damage and our other emergency services for their professional response too. Our council officers have been onsite since early this morning making things safe, undertaking assessments, and assisting the police in the aftermath.
I urge anyone with any information about these fires to contact the police immediately.
We will provide further updates on the status of the playground and clubhouse once assessments are completed.