Firefighters responded to a significant blaze at a bicycle shop located in the central business district of Byron Bay today. Emergency services were alerted to the incident on Jonson Street this afternoon following multiple reports of a fire.

As explosions were reported during the incident, the area was bustling with visitors taking advantage of the Easter school holidays when the fire erupted just before 1 PM.

Fire and Rescue NSW received several emergency calls regarding the fire, prompting a swift response. Acting Superintendent Andrew Bickle mentioned that the firefighters faced challenging conditions, particularly due to the potential presence of exploding lithium-ion batteries within the shop.

Fortunately, all staff members were able to evacuate the premises safely. Acting Zone Commander Superintendent Gary White noted that when firefighters arrived on the scene, heavy smoke complicated their firefighting efforts.

“At this point, we have managed to confine the flames to the bike shop. Crews are now examining the upper floors to determine if the fire has spread,” Superintendent White stated. He added that the manager of the residential units above the shop had taken prompt action to evacuate those residents.

An investigation has commenced to ascertain the cause of the fire. “We’re still in the initial stages of our inquiry and will be speaking with the shop owner soon,” Superintendent White remarked.