A fire has destroyed Little Saigon Market in Footscray after starting in the refrigeration system above the market’s cool room around 6:30am.
More than 70 firefighters attended to the blaze, which has also reportedly damaged the offices of the Les Twentyman Foundation – which works to support disadvantaged youth – above the market. Workers were apparently present at the time of the blaze, but nobody has been reported injured.
The popular market is made up of approximately 25 small businesses including restaurants and an Asian market. It is an iconic business and landmark in the local area.
The fire destroyed approximately 6000 books which were donated to the Les Twentyman Foundation. Founder Les Twentyman said it was a tragedy considering the work they had been doing:
In our office we would’ve had about 6,000 school textbooks, probably a lot of Christmas presents. Last year we put 420 homeless kids through school. We’ve been doing that for 26 years. Our Christmas party has been running for 33 years and so it’s going to be a tough Christmas.
Loc Lam, a part owner in the market, said thatt hey intend to rebuild, but it could take several years.
Source: ABC.
Source: Twitter / @maddieslattery.
