Formal investigations into ‘extensive’ damage in Warwick school fire begin

An early morning blaze at a Warwick school is under investigation by both police and QFES, with the damage disrupting planned events.

Investigations are underway into a fire that ravaged a school building in central Warwick on Sunday morning.

Just before 2.30am Queensland Fire and Emergency Services firefighter responded to a fire in a shed on the corner of Guy Street and Victoria Street.

Four crews responded and were on the scene until 11.30am that morning.

On Tuesday, Warwick State High School confirmed their junior school precinct was damaged by an “extensive fire” which had cancelled planned upcoming school events, including a transition day for incoming students.

A QFES spokesperson confirmed on Wednesday that fire investigators were looking into the cause of the blaze, as were Queensland Police.

A spokesperson for Education Queensland confirmed on Thursday the fire resulted in extensive damage to one of the school buildings.

“The school will be relocating the affected classes to other classrooms this week,” the spokesperson said.

“Unfortunately, as a result of the fire, the school was forced to cancel the Orientation Transfer Day for Year 6 students planned for December 7, 2022.

“The school will organise extensive activities on the first day of the 2023 school year, to enable a successful transition for students.”

The department was working with the school to ensure that the block would be ready for use by the end of the summer holidays.

As part of the School Watch program Education Queensland asks all communities to report any suspicious activities at a school by calling the police or School Watch on 13 17 88.

The investigation is currently open.