Fire crews on scene at Moranbah East State School after third fire in three weeks

Fire crews are back on scene a day after students resumed classes after the school was closed because of damage caused by two suspicious fires less in recent weeks.

Fire crews are on scene at Moranbah East State School for the third time in less than three weeks.

A Queensland Fire and Emergency Service spokeswoman said the blaze was a “small reignition” on a structure which had caught fire four days ago.

She said two crews arrived at the William St campus about 1.50pm Friday.

Police are also on scene.

The school had previously been closed because of two suspicious fires during the most recent school holidays.

An ongoing police investigation meant the school was not able to reopen to students on Tuesday and with classes resuming on Thursday after a damage assessment was expected to be completed.

Earlier this week a Department of Education spokesman confirmed the two previous fires occurred over the two-week break, with police ruling them suspicious.

“The fires have resulted in significant damage to two school buildings affecting a number of classrooms and learning spaces,” he said.

“The school is working with the Queensland Police Service in their investigations.

“Repair work has commenced and in the meantime, the department is in the process of installing new, temporary classrooms to restore the school to normal operation as soon as possible.”

Parents were understood to have been given information about arrangements for remote learning and a return to school date.

“Schools are among our most precious community assets and we all have a role to play in keeping them safe,” he said.

“As part of the School Watch program, we ask all communities to report any suspicious activities at a school by calling the police or School Watch on 13 17 88.”