19 Jun Community Rallies
Football Community Rallies Around Camden Falcons FC
Two weeks ago, our club suffered one of the most devastating losses in its history when fire destroyed the Falcons Nest, taking with it decades of memorabilia, club history and treasured memories.
In the days since, we have been overwhelmed by the support shown by our football family, the wider community, media organisations and all levels of government. While nothing can replace what was lost, the kindness and generosity shown to Camden Falcons FC has reminded us that our club is far more than a building.
This week, our Director of Football, Sal Barone, joined Mark Levy on 2GB to discuss the impact of the fire, the road to recovery and what comes next for the Falcons.
That conversation has already led to incredible support. Through Mark’s generosity, and with the assistance of Heather Garriock and Football NSW, discussions have begun around rebuilding some of the memorabilia and history lost in the fire. Mark has also arranged signed jerseys from the current Matildas and Socceroos squads and offered his support for future fundraising efforts as we work towards rebuilding the Falcons Nest.
We are equally grateful to ABC Sydney, who have helped share our story through radio and online coverage, allowing the wider community to better understand the impact this loss has had on our members and supporters.
We have also now received advice from NSW Fire & Rescue and NSW Police that the clubhouse fire has been deemed non-suspicious. Following extensive investigations, including site inspections, neighbourhood enquiries and specialist detection dogs, police will be closing the case.
While the exact cause cannot be determined, it is believed the fire started within the roof space and may have been the result of an electrical fault.
As the investigation concludes, Camden Council has commenced its assessment process and is working through the necessary steps to make the site safe. We hope to receive a further update from Council in the coming week regarding the next stages of the recovery process.
The support has extended well beyond the football community. We would like to acknowledge those who have reached out to offer assistance and advocate for the rebuilding of the Falcons Nest, including Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, Sally Quinnell MP, Angus Taylor MP and Mark Willing. Their support, along with that of many others behind the scenes, has been greatly appreciated.
While the community sees the visible impacts of the fire, much of the recovery work is happening quietly behind the scenes. Since the day of the fire, our volunteer committee has dedicated countless hours to managing the immediate response, supporting members, liaising with authorities, coordinating communications and planning the path forward for the club. Like many volunteers, they are balancing these responsibilities alongside their own work, family and personal commitments, yet continue to give their time and energy to ensure Camden Falcons emerges stronger from this challenge.
There is still a long road ahead, but every message, phone call, offer of assistance and show of support has strengthened our resolve.
The clubhouse may be gone, but the spirit of Camden Falcons remains as strong as ever.
Together, we will rebuild.
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