Defence Club house destroyed after morning fire, cause unknown

The Defence Club house located on Gordon Street in Suva has been destroyed in an early morning fire this morning.

Firefighters from Suva to Nausori have managed to contain the fire at about 10am.

The fire started before 8 o’clock this morning, and the double storey club house was engulfed in flames within minutes.

The three employees who started at 8am say they were cleaning the club house when the power went off suddenly and they could see the fire starting at the bottom floor of the building.

They then rushed out of the burning building.

Divisional Police Commander Central, SP Farasiko Matawalu confirms that the officers are still at the scene.

The National Fire Authority confirms that three fire trucks were at Gordon Street with about 12 on and off duty officers assigned.

We are currently trying to speak to the NFA regarding the fire investigatios and issues relating to water pressure at the fire hydrants.

The 109 year old Defence Club of Fiji was established as a gentleman's club in 1915 prior to the outbreak of World War I.

Based on a common desire to establish a place of loyalty to the crown as well as leisurely passtime, the Defence Club first opened its doors to members who shared similar goals and interests.

The club's constitution was founded on strong military principles and includes an 'Oath of Allegiance' which all new members agree to on the acceptance of their membership to the club.

The first President of the Defence Club was Sir E.B Sweet-Escott. Other Presidents include such notable personalities as: Sir Len Usher 1950, Sir Edward Cakobau 1967, Mr Joe Campbell 1973, Rod Jepsen 1990 and Leo Smith 1995. Throughout World War 1 and WW2, Club membership grew as did its strong military presence which was evident in its membership and which was to become the hallmark of the Defence Club.

Today the Defence Club is frequented by businessmen and professionals with the inclusion of a few respected politicians who have come to enjoy the club's facilities over the years.

Initially a gentlemen's club, the Defence Club now offers a range of membership options to its patrons including women membership as associate members.

The cause of the fire is unknown at this stage.

We are also trying to speak to the Club trustee about the fire.

Stay with us for developments.