Online fundraiser for young couple burnt in Robina cafe explosion

A 26-year-old man who was days away from realising a dream of opening a cafe with his partner remains in a critical condition on a coma after a ferocious gas bottle explosion at Robina on Friday.

Family of a young couple badly burnt in a horrific Gold Coast cafe explosion last week have launched an online fundraiser to help them cope financially with the long recovery ahead.

James Rutland, 26, and Jessica Horsley, 23, were just days away from realising their dream of opening their own cafe at Robina when a gas explosion rocked the establishment on Friday.

A gas bottle exploded at the Energy Circuit site as James Rutland and Jessica Horsley were preparing for the opening of their cafe. Picture: Glenn Hampson

The ferocious blast blew out the glass doors of the Energy Circuit premises, leaving the pair with severe facial, chest, leg and arm injuries.

They were both taken by ambulance to the burns unit at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital.

Mr Rutland, a chef, and Ms Horsley, a barista, were setting up the Local Harvest Cafe in preparation for its planned grand opening on August 2 when the incident happened.

James’ brother, John, has launched a GoFundMe page to raise money for the couple’s medical costs and ongoing costs.

James Rutland, 26, and Jessica Horsley, 23. Picture supplied

“James is now in ICU with severe burns in an induced coma,” Mr Rutland posted on the fundraising platform.

“We are raising funds to help with their medical expenses, their recovery and their day to day expenses given it will be a long road until they can work again.

“Any small contribution will help James and Jess and is greatly appreciated.”

The fundraiser has already generated $7000 of its $10,000 target only a day after being set up.