Two weeks after the tragic loss of firefighter Izabella Nash, the impact of the Slack’s Creek factory fire is still being deeply felt by the surrounding community.
Although the lives of Ms Nash’s family and injured firefighter, Lia Drew, will never be the same, factory neighbours hope the physical damage from the blaze will soon be forgotten.
The building, which QFES confirmed was used by an events business, was “significantly damaged” by the fire and is almost fully demolished, with excavators on site.
One neighour said he had “never seen so much rubble”.
A spokesperson for Queensland police said there was no police closures to roads or businesses related to the fire.
Pacific Highway Service Road was closed between Moss Street and Judds Court on the day of the fire (Tuesday 2 May), but it was re-opened the following day.
Businesses directly neighbouring the factory are yet to open, such as the Vinnies, which has a sign on the front door reading: “Unfortunately, due to the recent fire situation, we are temporarily closed. We hope to re-open Monday 15 May. Sorry for inconvenience.”
The police tape cordoning off the factory is no longer there – indicating investigators have all the tangible evidence they need.
Investigations into the cause of the fire and the cause of Ms Nash’s death are being undertaken by Queensland police, Workplace Health and Safety Queensland, and QFES.
A spokesperson for Queensland police told MyCityLogan the report for the coroner was still being prepared, and they could provide no further comment on the investigations.
Acting commissioner Mike Wassing said QFES was working with Ms Nash’s family to organise a funeral and more information would be announced in time.
As for Ms Drew, a QFES spokesperson said she remained in hospital and was in a stable condition.
As per the last official update, Ms Drew was transferred to the burns ward with burns to her arms and hands.
It was reported she had many months of recovery ahead but was to be fully supported by QFES.
