Firefighters battled a massive blaze in Brisbane’s inner-south on Wednesday afternoon, leaving one man fighting for his life in hospital and causing significant damage to multiple buildings. The inferno, which started in an abandoned commercial building on Hubert Street, quickly spread to neighbouring properties, including the popular Lussh wedding venue, sending thick smoke over the city’s southside during the evening peak hour.
The fire, which was first reported at 4.20pm on Wednesday, quickly escalated, prompting authorities to declare a public emergency and close off several streets. Fifteen fire crews were battling the blaze well into the night, with police and paramedics also on the scene. The roof of the Lussh venue collapsed in the intense heat, while a second building sustained partial collapse and extensive damage. A third building also suffered smoke damage.
Woolloongabba Fire: One Man Rushed to Hospital
A Queensland Ambulance Service spokeswoman confirmed that a man was taken to Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital in a critical condition, suffering burns to his airway and smoke inhalation. The man’s injuries were deemed life-threatening. No other injuries were reported.
The Blaze and its Impact
The fire was reported to have started in a single-story commercial building on Hubert Street, before spreading to neighbouring properties. Witnesses described seeing a large amount of black smoke accumulating quickly. The fire, fuelled by the dry conditions, resulted in significant heat radiating into surrounding streets, causing nearby trees to burn like kindling.
The intense fire sparked an emergency declaration under the Public Safety Preservation Act (PSPA), leading to the establishment of an exclusion zone encompassing Gibbon, Stanley, Raid, and Hawthorne Streets. Police advised members of the public to avoid the area and those within the exclusion zone to remain indoors until further notice.
Public Safety and Impact on the Area
The fire erupted in the Woolloongabba Priority Development Area, which the state government has earmarked for a major urban renewal project. This project aims to capitalize on the new Cross River Rail station under construction opposite the Gabba, with plans for residential towers, restaurants, and shops already lodged. However, the government’s decision not to rebuild the Gabba for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games has cast a shadow over the area’s future development.
The fire raised concerns about the safety of the area, particularly given the presence of asbestos and chemicals in the buildings. The fire’s impact on the surrounding community was significant, as the smoke blanketed the CBD and caused disruptions to traffic and public transport. The fire investigation is ongoing, and authorities will determine the cause of the blaze.
The Lussh Wedding Venue Affected
The fire had a devastating impact on The Lussh, a popular wedding venue that operated in one of the affected buildings. The venue’s management expressed their deep sorrow over the incident and assured clients with upcoming weddings and events that they would find alternative locations. They emphasized their commitment to finding solutions for their affected clients, drawing on their experience in the events industry to handle unexpected challenges.
Woolloongabba: A City in Recovery
The fire in Woolloongabba is a stark reminder of the potential dangers of urban environments. The rapid spread of the fire, its impact on a popular venue like The Lussh, and the resulting public safety concerns highlight the need for robust fire safety measures and emergency response protocols. The city is now in recovery mode, with authorities focusing on the investigation, supporting those affected, and ensuring the safety of the community.
Despite the challenges, the spirit of resilience and community support is evident in Woolloongabba. Businesses and residents alike have come together to offer assistance to those affected by the fire, demonstrating the strength and unity of the community in the face of adversity. As the city recovers, the lessons learned from this event will undoubtedly shape future development and safety measures, ensuring a safer and more resilient urban landscape.
