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Historic photos up in smoke
FIRE destroyed a historic photographic studio and archive in Gladesville last night, closing Victoria Road in both directions.
The Melba Studios on Victoria Road, which contained photographic records of all major rugby league teams in Sydney back to 1917, was gutted by the blaze, which began on the upper floor of the heritage-listed building around 8.30pm. Priceless school photos dating back years may also have been lost.
Victoria Road remained closed in both directions late last night, with traffic diverted into side streets, as 10 fire crews converged on the scene.
Firefighters and police helped staff evacuate pets from the Gladesville veterinary hospital, which was next door to the burning building.
Clouds of foul-smelling smoke, possibly caused by photographic chemicals on the site, meant onlookers could not approach the blaze.
"Our main priority is to save the vet and surrounding businesses," said Superintendent Ian Krimmer of the Fire Brigade.
The owner of the Melba Studios was too distraught to talk last night. But one of the company's employees, who asked not to be named, said the building appeared to be ruined.
"It's more than a shame, it's a tragedy really," she said. "It's always sad to see a family business devastated in this way, but they will come back."
The Melba Studios has taken team photos for NRL clubs, as well as for the State of Origin rugby league squads, for many years. The company was established in 1917, and it is understood that many of its historic images of Sydney schools and sport were in the building when it caught fire.
http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/historic-photos-up-in-smoke/2009/01/30/1232818738201.html
I immediately recognised the name, they do all Balmain DJRL grand finals pics....hopefully all the historical stuff is backed up
