Community responds to Russell Island tragedy

Redland City Council is working closely with emergency services and support agencies as the tragic circumstances unfold around the six lives lost in this morning’s Russell Island house fires.

Mayor Karen Williams said it was difficult to fathom the extent of the tragedy and the effect it will have across Redlands Coast.

“This is an incredibly heart-wrenching incident that has involved such young children and, understandably, the Russell Island community will need all our support to get through the difficult days ahead,” Cr Williams said.

“As a city we will come together to comfort, support and care for anyone impacted by this event.

“Russell Island is a tight-knit community and we know this will have deep and lasting ramifications.”

Cr Williams has asked people wanting to offer their support, to respectfully stay away from the site of the fire.

“Sites for tributes will be set up at the Bay Island Memorial Gardens, High Street, Russell Island; and at the Sel Outridge Park, Peel Street, Redland Bay,” she said.

“Sel Outridge Park will be a safe option on the mainland as the entrance to Weinam Creek is a busy area and traffic there may pose a risk.

“Please also respect the privacy of the island community involved. We also again respectfully ask that you do not send donations of goods over to the island via ferry or barge, as the logistics of getting your donations to where they are needed will be difficult.

“Please contact official support organisations in the coming days if you have items to donate.”

Anyone wishing to donate funds to those affected by the incident are advised by Council to do so through official organisations.

Cr Williams said the GIVIT organisation had established an immediate donation account while the Redland Foundation would begin a coordinated support fund within the next 24 hours.

“GIVIT, along with other coordinating agencies including the Redland Foundation, will ensure that donations from the public go to the right places, at the right times, and for the right reasons,” she said.

GIVIT’s direct deposit details are as follows.

Account name: GIVIT Listed Ltd

BSB: 034 064

Account number: 293 485

Reference: Russell Island House Fires Support Fund

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If this article has raised any issues for yourself or a loved one, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.