Fire sparks evacuation at JCU Townsville campus

JCU Security staff evacuated the building and firefighters extinguished a blaze in a room in the University Hall accommodation block. There were no injuries.

Firefighters say the room was extensively damaged and smoke has spread through some parts of the building. Queensland Fire and Emergency Services said it was too early to tell what caused the blaze, and police are investigating.

JCU Chief of Staff Vanessa Cannon said the university is working to determine how many of the students who evacuated can be allowed back in, and how many will need alternate accommodation for the next few days.

“We’ve evacuated A and B block of the University Hall accommodation block as we investigate the extent of the damage and work to get power back on. Overnight, students stayed in the dining area or other nearby accommodation blocks that were unaffected by the incident,” she said.

JCU is confident it can provide accommodation on campus for all affected students.

Ms Cannon said the university is doing all in its power to ensure minimum disruption to student routine.

“Staff will stay on the ground until every affected student has a place to stay and knows where they stand in regards to what’s happening with their accommodation. We’re also very focused on providing as much support as they need during this time,” she said.

Ms Cannon said JCU was very grateful for the prompt response and additional support being provided by the QFES and QPS.