Staff members of SPCA Henties Bay have lost all their belongings after a fire destroyed their accommodation block in the early hours of Sunday morning. No injuries were reported, and all affected staff members have since been relocated to safe and secure temporary housing.

Most importantly, everyone is safe and has access to basic necessities, including food, clothing and bedding, thanks to the swift response and generosity of the Henties Bay Fire Station, Life Link Ambulance and members of the local community. The cause of the fire is believed to have been accidental. The organisation currently operates without electricity. Although a solar lighting system was recently installed, it had not yet been fitted with 12V bulbs. As a result, staff relied on candles for lighting and used a donkey boiler to heat water for showers at night, both of which may have contributed to the blaze. Emergency responders acted swiftly to bring the fire under control and ensured that it was completely extinguished.

The organisation confirmed that the animal shelters were not affected by the fire. All dogs and cats in their care remained safe and were fed, watered and comforted throughout the ordeal. SPCA Henties Bay expressed heartfelt gratitude to the emergency services and community members who stepped in to assist.

Supporters provided cool drinks, sandwiches, clothing and essential supplies to staff and their children. “Thank you” hardly seems enough to express the organisation’s appreciation to everyone who helped care for their SPCA family during this difficult time.

The management of SPCA Henties Bay plea to the community for assistance to their staff members that lost everything in the fire.

By Rudi Bowe