The multi-agency operation has transitioned into the recovery phase after crime scene examinations concluded without finding human remains at the site of last month's large building fire at Surry Hills.
An Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) was stood-up on Friday 26 May 2023 to coordinate the operations of multiple agencies in support of Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) as they worked to extinguish the blaze, which broke out just after 4pm on Thursday 25 May 2023.
The priorities for the emergency operation were to render the fire ground safe to allow on-site investigations, coordinate for the safe demolition of the remaining structures, limit the impacts on traffic and public transport, and importantly, house displaced residents and ensure the timely return to their properties.
Detectives from the Financial Crimes Squad's Arson Unit established Strike Force Strontium to investigate the circumstances of the blaze. They are being assisted by FRNSW's Fire Investigation and Research Unit.
Following rigorous risk assessments by demolition contractors and engineers from NSW Public Works and the NSW Police Force, on-site inquiries commenced on Monday (5 June 2023).
Strike Force Strontium detectives, specialist officers from the Forensic Evidence and Technical Services Command, and a cadaver-detection dog, conducted extensive investigations and examinations. No human remains were found in the rubble.
After the remaining inquiries were completed, the site was returned to the responsibility of the owners about 3.30pm today (Saturday 10 June 2023).
Anyone with information which may assist Strike Force Strontium investigators can be provided by contacting Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.
The responsibility of operations was also handed over from the EOC to Recovery Committee, which was established under local emergency management arrangements, to continue to support the affected members of the community.
The Committee held a face-to-face meeting with displaced residents on Tuesday (6 June 2023), and in addition to ongoing communications, will oversee the work of insurers and other agencies to conduct repairs and other works to restore impacted buildings for residents and other occupants to safely return.
Residents of 38 Chalmers Street returned throughout the last week, while additional works continuing at 34 Chalmers Street, including over the long weekend, and it is expected some of those residents may be able to return this coming week and the remaining, the following week.
Due to significant damage caused by the collapse of the neighbouring building basement at 1-5 Randle Street, it is expected to be several weeks before those residents will be able to return.
The respective insurance companies are managing escorted access for residents into their buildings to collect belongings until the time they are able to safely return home.
Any resident – tenant or owner – who has been displaced by the fire in an impacted building, and has not already done so, should register with the Red Cross Register.Find.Reunite: https://register.redcross.org.au.
Motorists are reminded that Chalmers Street and Randle Street between Cleveland Street and Elizabeth Street remain closed as operations and investigations continue.
For real-time traffic updates, including road closures, visit livetraffic.com or download the Live Traffic NSW app.
In Surry Hills, buses travelling towards the city are diverting away from Chalmers and Randle streets. They're using local streets instead and may start or terminate their trips at different stops. Consider catching a train to and from Redfern station to connect with buses.
For trip planning on public transport and service alerts, visit transportnsw.info or download a transport app.
Anyone with concerns or enquiries regarding their health are encouraged to contact a medical professional, while anyone who requires mental health, welfare or other support can contact local community support services. A comprehensive list of services can be located online:
https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/customer-support-service-infoxchange-service-seeker
