A Doreen community hall will be closed for at least eight weeks following a suspicious fire.
The Laurimar Community Centre caught fire on January 10 soon after 11.30pm.
The blaze is being investigated by police after firefighters found evidence of “malicious activity”.
Doreen CFA captain Chris Maries said crews arrived at the Hazelglen Drive centre to find a meeting room alight. They forced their way into the building.
He said the fire had caused significant damage, estimating the repair bill to be between $80,000 and $100,000.
“The special timber floor to the dance studio is beyond repair,” he said. “All the walls and ceilings in that room will have to be replaced.”
Mr Maries said crews worked quickly to stop the fire spreading to other parts of the building, including Jojayz Cafe.
Mayor Kris Pavlidis said the council-owned centre would need to undergo a major restoration.
“It is disappointing that the centre will remain closed to the public and user groups for at least eight weeks,” she said.
“We understand that this incident is highly inconvenient and distressing, especially for the local Doreen community, and thank everyone for their patience in this matter.”
Cr Pavlidis said the council would review existing bookings for the centre and, where possible, identify suitable alternatives.
The centre’s 30 regular user groups have been contacted to discuss alternative venue options.
