Catholic Diocese Bishop of Lismore, Greg Homeming has said that it is “great news” that the fire that began in the sacristy of St Carthage's Cathedral early this morning has not injured anyone. 

Richmond Police District has reported that no-one was inside the cathedral at the time of the fire, but that the fire had caused significant damage to the building.

Officers are investigating the circumstances surrounding the fire, which is being treated as suspicious.

“This morning the sacristy of the cathedral was found to be on fire - the cause of which at this stage is unknown,” Bishop Homeming said.

Bishop of Lismore, Greg Homeming.

“Very quickly the police arrived on scene and it seems at this stage, they have the fire well under control. 

“By the time I got down there, there were no flames to be seen and only smoke. By 8.30am, I couldn’t see much smoke.

“I thank police and the fire brigade for their good work to bring it under control.

“The great news is no one has been injured, no one has died and all we have is a damaged building. It’s only a building.

“The church remains undamaged, because the church is the people – you. As long as you continue in your love, the church will go on.”

Bishop Homeming said he was waiting to see what the police investigation would report about the cause of the fire.

“Please keep us and the whole of the diocese in your prayers," he said.

School closed

St Mary's school, next to the cathedral, will be closed today, but Trinity Catholic College Principal Brother John Hilet confirmed that supervision for children will be available.

ORIGINAL STORY: UPDATE: Fire at St Carthage's Cathedral closes school and roads