Flipside Circus at Northshore Hamilton were knocked off balance in January with a fire breaking out on their premises at 221 MacArthur Avenue.
Marketing Coordinator Matt McInally said: “After all that work it’s hard to see the building on fire. But we’re a resilient bunch and we will keep working and hope to be back home as soon as possible.”
The fire broke out on January 23, most likely started due to a contractor carrying out welding works on the outside of the building.
Much of their equipment, including specialised items like aerial rigging, aerial silks, crash mats, and juggling equipment, has been lost due to smoke damage.
Mr McInally said the cleanup will be extensive, and they are still unsure as to when the building will be operational again.
However, they have been able to continue classes with assistance from the community.
“Within two days we were running classes at The Shed, Northshore – thanks to equipment loans from other local circus companies Vulcana and Circa, and the amazing support of Northshore Brisbane,” Mr McInally said.
“With the wonderful support of Brisbane Powerhouse we have since moved most of our programs to the Brisbane Powerhouse Stores Building.
“We have been overwhelmed by the support and generosity of our friends and community.”
Flipside Circus opened their Brisbane Circus Centre at Hamilton in December 2022, just over a year ago, and so the team have been understandably upset by the fire.
“There’s been some tears,” Mr McInnally said.
“Our staff and our community worked so hard to complete the Brisbane Circus Centre, the space isn’t just a home for Flipside, it’s home to a whole range of artists, our students, and community groups.”
As a not-for-profit organisation, Flipside Circus is hoping the community can help support them to get back on their feet – and their tightrope!
Flipside is a registered charity meaning all donations over $2 are tax deductible; donate by visiting https://flipside-recovery.raiselysite.com/.
Or scan the QR code below to donate.
Photo captions:
Firemen on the scene of the fire
Program Coordinator / Head Trainer Phoebe Waltham and Customer Service / Philanthropy Coordinator Rebecca Campbell finding a moment of levity amongst the cleanup.
