A devastating fire destroyed a number of business premises in McKay Street, Warra on Wednesday, 23 June 1921.
The large block of buildings, comprising about one-fourth the township, was destroyed, and included included the Empire Hall, the Royal Hotel, Mr. J. Connell's billiard-room and hairdressers' saloon, Mr. W. Dobbie's shop, the Bank of New South Wales, R. Fraser (Auctioneer), Mr. L. H. Symes' office, & Messrs. Dingwall and McKay's store.
It was thought that the fire started in the Empire Hall about 1.30am, and less than two hours later the whole block was gone.
Furniture and stock to the value of about £4000 were saved, and the damage was estimated at between £7000 and £8000.