Fire destroys Arden Street facilities

Austadiums • Sunday 23rd July 2006

The Kangaroos have been hit by their second arson attack in as many months, with a fire yesterday destroying the portable building that houses their gymnasium, assistant coaches' offices and players' lounge at Arden Street Oval.

Fire officers believe tyres were used to ignite the fire, which started at 4am yesterday and quickly raced through the Arden St building.

The club has announced a multi-million dollar redevelopment of the area, with building set to start in November, but was yesterday working on temporary arrangements for its assistants and gym.

It is the fifth attack in the North Melbourne area since late May, when arsonists gutted two vans -- one donated by Glenn Archer -- and razed the famous Arden St betting shed.

While the damage from yesterday's fire was estimated to be about $150,000, Kangaroos chief executive Geoff Walsh was concerned also about the attack on the tight-knit club.

"I am not sure of the financial terms, but it's the invasion; it's the attack that is the thing that is damaging and hurtful to the place and every individual involved," Mr Walsh said.

The players' lockers were undamaged, but most of the adjoining rooms were destroyed, including the boot studders' room, computers, and televisions.

MFB Commander Ross Trimboli said the arson squad and forensic science unit were investigating the fire.

Arden Street Oval

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The Kangaroos have been hit by their second arson attack in as many months, with a fire yesterday destroying the portable building that houses their gymnasium, assistant coaches' offices and players' lounge at Arden Street Oval.
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