The historic Zoo Lake Bowls Club building has been severely damaged in a fire that broke out early this morning (October 1).

Thick black smoke and flames were seen billowing from the structure just after 06:00, drawing the attention of shocked residents and early joggers in the area.

Rosebank Killarney Gazette journalist, Naziya Davids-Easthorpe, reported live from the scene.

Firefighters from Fire Ops SA  and the City of Johannesburg Emergency Services were quickly on the scene. Fire Chief Rudie Swanepoel said flames had already broken through the roof in two sections by the time firefighters arrived at 06:39.

Twenty-five firefighters battled the fire, which was fueled by the building’s timber structure and ongoing renovations. By 10:00, the blaze was fully contained, though crews remained on site to prevent flare-ups. A drone operator is conducting an aerial thermal survey to check for remaining hotspots.

Read more: Motorists continue to dodge flooded excavation

The cause of the fire is under investigation, with early indications pointing to the kitchen area. No injuries have been reported.

The once-popular bowling green and clubhouse – frequented by community members for generations – now lies charred and partially collapsed, with only a few structural elements still standing.

Read more: BREAKING NEWS: Unidentified body discovered by police in Zoo Lake

@caxtonjoburgnorth BREAKING NEWS WATCH: Zoo Lake Bowls building was destroyed by a fire, Fire Ops firefighters are at the scene to contain the fire and The aftermath of the fire at the Zoo Lake Bowls clubhouse, where firefighters work to extinguish the blaze . Video: Naziya Davids-Easthorpe #Fire #zoolake ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

Stay tuned to the Rosebank Killarney Gazette for updates as more details emerge.

Follow us on our WhatsApp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates!