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Inquest Set After Russell Island House Fire Deaths

9/8/2026

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Story summary
  • A house fire on Russell Island killed a 34-year-old father and his five children.
  • Deputy state coroner Donald MacKenzie heard the landlord fined $774 for improper smoke-alarm installation in 2024.
  • The home’s alarms failed to meet 2017 tenancy safety laws and none were heard.
  • Queensland fire crews required a ferry, delaying arrival by 45–60 minutes.
  • Coroner MacKenzie will hold a 10-day November inquest into cause, alarm compliance, and response.