25 March 2005

Students were evacuated today when a fire broke out in a locked student’s room at the original building at St John’s College, St Lucia just before 2pm.

The Donaldson building, a two-storey brick building opened in 1956, was destroyed. Its 44 residents were largely first-year students from country areas, who lost computers, lecture notes and other possessions.

Residential blocks housing the rest of the College’s 297 residents were saved.

Students will be accommodated in neighbouring University colleges in the immediate future.

The University of Queensland expresses its sympathy to the College and students affected by the fire. The University has offered counselling to any students requiring assistance. Contact Student Support Services telephone 3365 6691.

Media: Further information, Jan King 0413 601 248.