Victoria Police is investigating a series of fires that broke out at soccer grounds in Melbourne, some of which are used by Greek-Australian teams – with authorities not ruling out the possibility of arson.
The third and final suspicious fire broke out at 5am on Saturday May 3 and destroyed the club building of the Waverley Wanderers Football Club (AEK Waverley).
“We are shocked. We have nothing to do with anyone,” club president John Leloudas told Neos Kosmos.
Meanwhile, Victoria Police are investigating whether the arson of a car outside the home of a Monash Villarreal FC club executive last November is related to the second suspicious fire that destroyed a building at the Glen Waverley Soccer Club on April 16.
The alleged arson attacks began after Monash Council decided to lease the Carlson Reserve stadium to Monash Villarreal, after previously spending $2.8 million on its renovation.
The most recent fire at the Mayfield Reserve facilities is also considered suspicious, although the police currently state that they do not believe there is a connection to the other incidents.
Glen Waverley Soccer Club chairman Kostas Ganotis told The Age that he is shocked by the incidents involving the three fires and is unable to understand why his club could be targeted.
“I’ve been at the club for over 25 years and I’ve never seen anything like this,” he said.
Ganotis said fear has spread among the local football community over the possibility of future attacks. He hopes that answers will soon be found about these incidents.
“Kids just want to come and kick the ball, it’s a big part of their lives. It hits really hard when they see a place they felt safe [burning down].”
In addition, he said his club suffered losses of memorabilia and equipment, including new player uniforms worth $40,000.
“That’s the most shocking part… We’re just trying to stay strong and move forward,” he said.
Monash Council Mayor Paul Klisaris addressed the incidents in a media statement sent to Neos Kosmos.
“Losing two facilities for local sporting clubs in a matter of weeks is incredibly disappointing and concerning,” he said.
“We are in regular contact with Victoria Police and have put additional security in place at other sporting facilities.
“Our staff are working with clubs to find alternative locations for upcoming matches, and the Waverley Wanderers will play their next few homes games at Gardiners Reserve.
“At this stage, we anticipate the cost for each pavilion to be between $3 and $4m and we await information from our insurers.”
