Police and Fire and rescue were called to The Area at around 2pm on Saturday, after reports of smoke in the VIP room and an odor of burning plastic.

It was established the fire was coming from the male toilets outside the poker machine room.

Police allege toilet paper was set alight, causing damage to the wall, and smoke damage to the toilets and the VIP room.

The Area Hotel’s owner Jason Torresan expressed his disappointment in the act.

“To do something like that, not only with the damage toproperty, but to endanger the safety of others is very disappointing,” Mr Torresan said.

He said the fire was extinguished and no-one was hurt thanks to the great work of the emergency services.

“I would like to sincerely thank the fire brigade, who had three trucks here within 15 minutes, and the police who responded immediately.”

Inspector Nick Seddon called on anyone who had information on the incident to call Griffith Police on 6969 4299.

Mr Torresan also pleaded with the community to come forward with information.

“We need to find out who did this, it’s unacceptable to put people in harms way,” he said.