By KATRINA BRANDON

 

COMMUNITY treasure, the Churchill Hotel, was engulfed by flames on the morning of Tuesday, May 13.

Emergency services were called to the establishment just before 5am, where they were met with a blaze.

A Churchill local, who wished to remain anonymous, was heading to work nearby and alleged they saw a black hatchback coming out near the pub and down Phillip Parade. Not long after, he started to see flames.

“I heard some small explosions, and then I saw a car go past and saw the pub on fire, so I called Triple Zero,” they told the Express.

“I didn’t know what was going on. I just noticed that the pub was on fire.”

Local authorities from Churchill and surrounding areas soon arrived on the scene, and were able to get the fire under control, but not before the majority of the building was destroyed.

Along with the fire, multiple explosions echoed throughout town.

“It wasn’t a lot to see other than the flames and a couple of big explosions. Couldn’t even really tell what it was – just a little hatchback car,” the anonymous local said.

As the fog lifted, more people arrived to check out the damage. Local authorities redirected those driving past, and others stuck to offering their condolences on the local community Facebook page.

Lions Club of Churchill President, Robin King was present to watch authorities try to save what was left of the establishment.

“This morning, my wife got up and asked if I could smell smoke, and then she looked at her phone,” he said.

As Mr King explained, the pub has been where the Lions club holds its weekly raffles.

“I have been coming here for 18 years,” he said.

The pub’s owner, Guy Martin, opened up on the devastation of losing his “second home”.

“Today has been one of the toughest days of my life,” he said.

“The Churchill Pub – a place filled with memories, laughter, and community – has been destroyed by fire. At this stage, it’s believed to be a possible act of arson, which makes it all the harder to process.

“I’m heartbroken. This pub wasn’t just a business – it was home. A place where friendships were formed, milestones were celebrated, and locals felt like family.

“To my incredible staff, thank you for your strength and support. I know how much this place meant to all of us.

“To our loyal customers and friends, your kind messages and offers of help have meant more than I can say.

“We’re still coming to terms with what’s happened and what the future holds. But I know one thing for sure – the spirit of the Churchill lives on in all of us.”

Police told the Express the fire is being treated as suspicious and that a crime scene has been established.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone with information or anyone who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in the area is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppers.com.au