Runnymede house fire: Family of seven stunned by community support after devastating blaze

A family whose house and possessions were destroyed in a horrific blaze have been inundated with community support, as fire investigations continue and the devastated family try to find a way forward.

The family of seven that were left homeless and without any belongings have shared their overwhelming thanks to the community for rallying around them.

The Attard family were left devastated after a fire tore through their Runnymede home in June 1, razing the timber building and tragically claiming the lives of the family’s pets.

Photo showing the devastating fire at Runnymede, near Kingaroy, June 1, 2022.

Fire crews were called to the Runnymede property late on Wednesday evening, June 1, with the first crews arriving at 6.50pm.

A total of seven crews battled to bring the fire under control, with the timber structure on Scotts Lane well alight by the time they arrived.

No one was home at the time and tragically, the family also lost their eight-week-old puppy Narla and 10-week-old kitten Oscar in the blaze.

Photo showing the devastating fire at Runnymede, near Kingaroy, June 1, 2022.

Family friend and neighbour Trinity Stockdale said the past week had been tough for the Attards.

“As you can imagine the family is finding this time very trying and overwhelming,” Ms Stockdale said.

“They’ve lost all of their possessions, their family members of the furry kind and their memories.”

A GoFundMe set up to help the family has already raised $1400, and the community has inundated them with donations of household items.

Ms Stockdale said the response had been incredible.

“The community as a whole have been absolutely amazing with the family having been given blankets, clothing and linen to almost last a lifetime I reckon,” she said.

“On behalf of Sue, the family, and myself we thank you for your continued support.”

Sue and Jeff, along with their five children, are currently staying with a family friend while looking for new accommodation.

“Being that there is a rental crisis this has definitely proven to be difficult thus far,” Ms Stockdale said.

“The accommodation will likely be in the form of a caravan or two until a rental becomes available in our area.”

The GoFundMe donations will be used to help get a roof over their heads.

Despite the difficult circumstances, the family and their supporters are trying to stay positive.

“It’s time to make them some new memories. Not replace the old ones, but make brand new ones,” Ms Stockdale said.

“Good ones, like how caring and supportive the community can be when we are faced with tragedy.”

Photo showing the devastating fire at Runnymede, near Kingaroy, June 1, 2022.

Investigations into the cause of the blaze have so far turned up few clues.

A Queensland Fire and Emergency Services spokeswoman confirmed a fire investigator attended the property, but that cause of the blaze remained “undetermined”.

Ms Stockdale said it was believed the living room wood heater may have played a part.

Anyone wishing to donate to the family’s GoFundMe can do so here.