At approximately 10pm Tuesday night a fire destroyed the gymnastics hall at Westfields. The combined damage bill could be higher than $2.5 million. The hall was home to the gymnastics programme at Westfields and the students arriving this morning were stunned as Mr Tucker met them and offered the comfort he could.

The school has received many offers of support and assistance - Mr Hudson, Holroyd High School, G.Perre Principal of Endeavor Sports High, Govenour Philip King Public School, Macquarie Fields High SAS, Smithfield Public School, Hunter Sports High School, The Pick Family, Fairfield West Public School, Fairfield High, St Ives High School, and Heaton Public School who suffered from a fire just the day before. Mr Tucker and the whole school family appreciates the support that these people have shown.

The schools motto is Fortitudo and whilst no one desires adversity it is true that we gain strength through adversity such as this. This challenge is drawing us all closer together as we support and encourage one another.

Presentation night, which was to be held Wednesday night, has been postponed - Mr Tucker wishes to make it clear that this night where our students finest achievements are recognised and celebrated will not be canceled - presentation night 1999 will be held. An offer has already been made to the school for an alternative venue but nothing is finalised.

The Minister for Education And Training The Hon. John Aquilina visited the school today to offer his support and to see the damage first hand.

"Reports suggest that the Westfields Fire was a deliberate arson attack. Fortunately it was contained because of the very quick response by the fire brigade and security guards. There is evidence that the person responsible was intending to set fire to other buildings," commented Mr Aquilina in a Press Statement.

He went on to say, "The damaged building will be demolished this week and planning for the rebuilding project will start immediately. The new facility will be fast tracked .... We hope to have the new hall ready for the start of the 2001 school year. There were already plans being developed to improve and extend the sporting hall, so the new complex will incorporate these ideas. It will be better than the one which has been destroyed."