UPDATE 5.25pm
ST COLUMBA’S church faces a possible $1 million damage bill from a suspicious fire this morning.
The Noble Park church’s kitchen and recreational hall, which were extensively damaged in the 4.20am blaze, had been recently renovated, a Uniting Church spokesman said.
It was still hoped that the main worship area could be used with generated power, he said.
“It’s a devastating experience for the congregation.”
Several congregrations meet at the church, some of whom have assembled in the now-unusable recreational hall.
Police have requested public information to assist their investigation of the fire.
Reportedly, the church’s windows had been broken several weeks earlier.
UPDATE 3pm
POLICE are requesting information on a suspicious fire at a Noble Park church and hall this morning.
St Columba’s Uniting Church’s kitchen and recreational area were significantly damaged by a fire about 4.20am.
Any information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au
EARLIER
THE Intercross Christian Centre and St Columba’s Uniting Church in Noble Park were damaged by a suspicious fire early on Wednesday morning.
CFA crews were called to the church in Joy Parade about 4.20am.
Incident controller Aaron Yates said the fire appears to have stated in the kitchen area which connects the Intercross Christian Centre and St Columba’s Uniting Church.
The fire was under control by 4.45am.
The kitchen was completely destroyed.
“There was some roof and structural damage to Intercross and the Uniting Church had some smoke and water damage,” Mr Yates said.
Arson Squad police and forensic officers were called to the incident.
