A supermarket was destroyed in Walgett today, with an exclusion zone put in place, following a fire this morning. There were no injuries.
Emergency services were called to the IGA business on Fox Street, Walgett, at approximately 8:40am on Wednesday morning, following reports of a fire.
It's the second time the building has been damaged by fire after it was destroyed in 2013.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Meantime, NSW Western NSW Minister Adam Marshall has expressed his sadness for the event and promised emergency food supplies to Walgett were being considered.
Mr Marshall told NSW Parliament: "I was saddened to learn of news that at approximately 8.30am this morning flames engulfed Walgett IGA Supermarket, with the building sustaining significant damage.
"Walgett IGA is the only supermarket in town and the closest alternative is 80km away," he said.
"The township of Walgett is already on its knees battling the crippling effects of drought. This could not come at a worse time and is devastating news for the many locals that rely on the supermarket to purchase their groceries and meet their most basic needs.
"I raised this sad development in NSW Parliament today and want to reiterate that my heart goes out to the people of Walgett who have been impacted by this incident.
"I am informed that the matter is still under investigation by NSW Fire & Rescue.
"As the Minister for Western NSW I have requested the Department of Premier & Cabinet to look into the issue as a matter of urgency and report back on how the NSW Government may be able to assist the township in its recovery. I have also discussed this incident with the local MP Roy Butler and will be working closely with him going forward."
Late yesterday a local working party was formed to help with the food crisis and the proposal for a temporary grocer site.
It said there were food outlets still at Walgett Newsagency, Inland Petroleum and Woodhams Petroleum and Cafe 64. Free bottled water was available at WAMS on Thursday to Friday from 9am to 12pm.
Walgett Shire Council will provide a free bus for people this Saturday to travel to Coonamble for supplies. Bookings are essential on 68286100.
The fire late today was yet to be extinguished. Walgett police said there had been no injuries. The owners of the supermarket had indicated they wanted to rebuild when possible, Central North Police said.