The Tribune

By FAY SIMMONS

TRIBUNE Business Reporter

jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

THE ABACO Club has begun recovery efforts after a weekend fire destroyed its spa and fitness centre and an adjacent generator building, with clean-up now underway as the high-end members’ club works to restore normal operations.

The fire, which broke out Friday evening, destroyed two key facilities at the Winding Bay property. 

Bill Chrysler, vice-president of operations at The Abaco Club, said restoring operations and supporting employees remain its immediate priorities following the incident, while rebuilding plans are already taking shape. 

"The safety of our employees, homeowners and neighbours remained our highest priority throughout this incident," said Mr Chrysler. "We are tremendously grateful to the volunteer firefighters, emergency personnel, Club employees and members of the wider Abaco community whose swift response, professionalism and generosity helped prevent a far more serious outcome.

“While the loss of these facilities presents challenges, our team has already begun the recovery process, and we are committed to supporting our employees, maintaining our services and rebuilding with the future of the Club and community firmly in mind."

According to the resort, the fire broke out Friday evening in a generator building adjacent to the spa and fitness centre before spreading to the main building. 

Volunteer fire departments from Marsh Harbour, Cherokee Sound and Bahama Palm Shores joined The Abaco Club's response, containing the blaze that evening and preventing it from spreading to nearby residences, other club facilities and the surrounding community.

A small flare-up within the affected area on Saturday morning was quickly brought under control, with firefighters remaining on site as a precaution until clean-up operations could safely begin.

Although the resort declined to estimate the financial impact, Tribune Business understands the damage could run into the millions of dollars. No injuries were reported during the incident. 

Bahamas Power and Ligh (BPL) inspected and tested the electrical equipment serving the affected area before authorising the restoration of electrical service on Sunday.The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

The Abaco Club is one of The Bahamas' premier private club and resort communities, featuring an 18-hole championship golf course, beachfront accommodations, private residences and a full-service marina. 

Located on the southern end of Great Abaco, the resort caters to an international membership and visitor base, and is a significant employer and economic contributor to the island through tourism, hospitality and related services.