Dramatic scenes this evening (Tuesday 31 July) when a spectacular fire destroyed the building which is fondly known to locals as "The Rock".
Intended as a theme park when it was built many years ago by the Leyland Brothers, it looked like a mini Ayers Rock/Uluru and became a familiar landmark to travellers on the Pacific Highway. It has long been a favourite stopping point for truckies, buses and holiday makers.
For Cove dwellers it has also been much appreciated as the handiest spot for buying fuel, newspapers and milk.
A large number of brigades, including our own North Arm Cove Brigade volunteers, were in attendance to fight the fire and prevent it spreading to the bowsers. At its peak the fire resembled the Hindenberg in flames and as it was brought under control the skeletal structure was clearly visible.
