A massive fire has destroyed the popular Spotted Dog Tavern and adjacent backpackers hostel in Bundaberg.
Around 11pm on Monday night a fire broke out at the Spotted Dog, on Bourbong Street, formerly known as the Federal Hotel. The blaze quickly spread to the associated Federal Backpackers structure next door.
Around 40 firefighters, coming from stations from Maroochydore up to Bundaberg, fought for hours to get the fire under control. On Tuesday crews remained, dousing hot spots.
Police report all of the Tavern’s patrons and the 60 guests staying at the hostel were evacuated, with no injuries reported. People from another nearby hotel were also evacuated as a precaution.
The pub’s proprietor is Steve ‘Pato’ Pattison, who confirmed to PubTIC the business was insured, humbly offering that he doesn’t need fundraising and had put an end to a proposed GoFundMe initiative.
The long-time hotelier, who leased the thriving operation, does not know yet what the future will be for the Dog.
“No idea. No idea …
“I’ve had six hotels in my life, this one was a little cracker and it’s too much shock. I’m still a bit numb at the moment.”
John Pappas, QFES area commander, reported crews faced a well-established blaze with both structures “totally destroyed”, and praised the prompt actions of the pub’s staff.
“It’s one of the biggest fires we’ve seen in the Bundaberg area in some time.
“Making sure that they did account for all persons and safely evacuate them is what we’ve seen as a successful outcome.”
In 2000 the town was rocked by the Childers backpacker hostel fire that killed 15 people, the anniversary of which was commemorated only last month.
An exclusion zone was established around the area on Monday night, with nearby residents issued smoke hazard warnings.
John Battas, Queensland Fire and Rescue Service Area Commander reported the fire appeared to have started in the roof.
Yesterday structural engineers assessed and secured the site, amid fears the facade of the building could collapse.
Bundaberg Mayor Jack Dempsey lamented the loss of the “iconic” buildings, holding local memories of more than a century.
“It certainly strikes at the heart of the community.”
