News

Junee to rally behind fire-hit businesses

Published

1 month ago

March 26, 2025

UNITED by a single mission, the Junee community will come together in a powerful show of support next week, to raise much needed funds for two local businesses devastated by last month’s fire in the town’s CBD.

On Saturday, April 5, Junee Business & Trades will host a major fundraising event at the Athenium Theatre to aid the recovery and rebuilding efforts of So Dance Junee and Brick Lane Sewing Studio, both of which were destroyed in the February 10 blaze.

The fire, which tore through the historic Lisgar Street buildings, triggered Junee’s largest emergency response in four years, with nearly 50 firefighters battling the inferno.

Despite their best efforts, the adjoining buildings—standing for over a century—were reduced to ruins, leaving business owners facing an immense loss.

In the days following the fire, the community rallied around the affected businesses, and Junee Business & Trades hopes to build on that support.

“Junee has always been a community that stands together in times of crisis,” president of the non-profit organisation, Tony Butt said.

“We saw an incredible outpouring of support through donations, GoFundMe campaigns, and countless acts of kindness that remind us of the strength of our town’s spirit.

“Now, it’s time to take that support a step further. Let’s stand together and help these businesses rise from the ashes.”

▪️JUNEE’S BIGGEST CHARITY EVENT IN YEARS

The major fundraiser is shaping up to be the town’s biggest charity event in years—an unforgettable night not to be missed.

Featuring entertainment, live and silent auctions, raffles, an online auction, and a licensed bar, the 18+ cocktail-style event will not only raise essential funds but also serve as a powerful reminder to the affected business owners that they are not alone.

Dozens of businesses and individuals have donated thousands of dollars’ worth of goods and services to the cause, with exclusive items and experiences to be auctioned off on the night.

For a full list of online auction items, click here.

▪️A LONG ROAD TO RECOVERY

So Dance Junee, founded by Shannon Oke, has been a hub for local dancers, providing a space for creativity and performance.

Now, with her studio gone, she faces the daunting task of starting from scratch.

Sisters Megan Callow and Nicole Jackson, who turned their childhood dream into a thriving business with Brick Lane Sewing Studio, lost everything in the fire—including their workspace, equipment, and more than 45 wedding dresses.

Making their recovery even more challenging, the business was uninsured.

“While the road to recovery will be long, our community’s unwavering support can make all the difference,” Butt said.

In an emotional update earlier this month, sisters Megan and Nicole expressed their deep gratitude to the community for its overwhelming support.

“From the bottom of our hearts, we want to thank you for your generous support during this incredibly difficult time,” they said.

“Losing the sewing studio to the fire was devastating, but the kindness and generosity from people like you all have given us hope and the strength to rebuild.

“Your donation means more than words can express. It’s not just financial help—it’s a reminder that we are not alone in this journey.

“With your support, we are working toward restoring our business and getting back to doing what we love.

“We are deeply grateful for your kindness, and look forward to the day when we can share our progress with you. Thank you for being part of our journey.”

▪️ HOW TO GET INVOLVED

Set to be a standout on Junee’s social calendar, the cocktail fundraiser will take place at the Athenium Theatre Junee on April 5 at 5pm, offering an opportunity for the town to come together and help these businesses rise from the ashes.

Tickets are available online or in person at Remax Junee, The Crossing Motel and Roundhouse Restaurant Junee, and the Junee Library. They are priced at $80 per person or $700 for a group of 10, with sales closing on April 3.

“This is more than just a fundraiser,” Butt said. “It’s a testament to the resilience and generosity that defines Junee.”

“Whether you attend the event, donate an auction item, or simply help spread the word, every contribution matters.”

▪️SUPPORTING OTHER AFFECTED BUSINESSES

Although not included in the fundraiser, adjoining business the Riverina Co-op (formerly JJS Glass & Co) also suffered significant smoke and water damage during the fire, as well as major stock losses.

Butt stressed the importance of supporting them as well, noting that while they are insured, the business is “doing it tough” and will need the community’s backing to get back on track.

“We are not forgetting that the Riverina Co-op was also badly affected by smoke and water damage,” he said.

“Although they are insured, they are doing it tough, with most of their stock needing to be replaced and the interior requiring a major clean-up.

“We are asking the community to give them the much-needed support to help get their business back on track.”