Bunbury PCYC thankful no one injured in Friday’s freak tornado amid significant damage to gymnasium hall

The manager of the Bunbury community centre significantly damaged in Friday’s tornado has said it is a miracle no one was seriously injured. Bunbury PCYC was among the dozens of buildings damaged across South Bunbury, Withers and Carey Park in the freak weather event, which occurred while there were children within the centre. Manager Katie Penches was inside the building when the tornado hit and said she was grateful no one had been seriously injured. “It was obviously an intense experience,” she said. “The staff were incredible with how they were able to remain calm and professional, ensuring the safety of young people,” she said. “That was really our priority because for young people to go through a natural disaster is traumatic, so I really commend my staff for really holding space for the young people. Bunbury PCYC’s gymnasium hall has been severely damaged by the tornado, with the repair costs and a re-opening date still unknown. The organisation’s immediate priority is ensuring staff, children and their families are being supported, with discussions also under way to look for alternative venues to house its programs. Ms Penches described the community support the centre had received since the freak weather event as overwhelming. “Even whilst the event was happening and hours afterwards, the support from police, the SES, ambulance, fire and emergency, it was incredible on the night,” she said. “The outpouring of support from our community, agencies and organisations has been amazing, and everyone is really keen to offer their support.” Among the support being offered is a trivia fundraiser set to be held at the Highway Hotel on May 23, with the venue also donating $2 from every steak sold for the rest of the month to the Bunbury PCYC. Ms Penches said the organisation was approached by the venue to raise funds for the centre and was grateful for all the support which had come the PCYC’s way. “It’s a community effort when something like this happens, it’s no one person,” she said. “There’s a real strength and resilience in the Bunbury community and that has really shown itself.”