A devastating blow for the small town of Binnaway as the only service station and auto repair business in the town was destroyed by fire on Saturday morning 6 September.

The owners, Matthew and Annette Colley, received a call at around 5.00 am from their security company alerting them that one of the cameras had stopped working and there was smoke in the building.

Mowrock Fire Brigade were first on scene, followed by crews from neighbouring areas along with police and ambulance support. 

Three cars within the building in various state of work/repair, unfortunately have been destroyed.

Fearing a collapse of the front part of the building where the petrol and diesel bowsers are located, authorities called for a 100 meter exclusion zone which has since been cancelled.

The building is now cordoned off and the owners face a difficult time ahead.

The garage which would open at six am serviced tradies and travellers heading off early.

One traveller, a regular through Binnaway, Geoff said “We’ve been coming through Binnaway for years, the campsite is always very clean, the locals are friendly. 

"We come through on our way up to the Goldy to see the grand-children. 

"We like to have an early start and know we can get fuel here, not sure how we will do this in future. 

“We wish the owners and staff a quick resolution in either rebuilding or relocating. 

"It’s a huge loss for this little community.”

Matthew and wife Annette Colley, both highly respected residents of Binnaway are well known for their dedication to their customers and are sponsors of many sporting groups within the area.

Peter Angus, an employee said “It’s not just the loss of my income and tools, the loss to the community is going to be widely felt and for a very long time. As well as fuel and parts for vehicles, customers enjoy a cuppa and a chat."

“I’m obviously gutted about the loss of my tools, but it’s the one’s that can’t be replaced, the 47 year old impact driver that I used when I was learning with my dad (Dec), it was one of the few remaining items I had left of him," Peter said.

The interior of the building was gutted with vehicles and equipment destroyed. [IMAGE; MANDY ELLIS, WPApp]

Tributes are pouring in on social media, with offers of support, understanding and well wishes.  

"Our parents service station has been a part of our family’s life for so long and losing it has been heartbreaking," said daughter Josephine Peters.

"But the outpouring support from the RFS, local police, businesses and our community has meant more than we can say.

"Your kindness is helping our family get through this incredibly difficult time, from the bottom of my heart, thank you".

The future of Myers Motors is unknown at present, but with the nearest petrol station being 30 minutes away, it's a service which is invaluable to the little town.