Steve Ploubidis, Plato’s Greek Chargrill owner and former SAJC executive, suffers third-degree burns, family launches GoFundMe

The family of a popular Adelaide business owner injured in a devastating blaze has given an update on his condition, revealing he has burns to 70 per cent of his body.

Prominent Adelaide horse racing identity Steve Ploubidis suffered third-degree burns to 70 per cent of his body during a devastating blaze at his popular Greek restaurant, his family has revealed.

Mr Ploubidis sustained the injuries when his popular Walkerville takeaway shop Plato’s Greek Chargrill went up in flames and was destroyed early last month.

Steve Ploubidis suffered third-degree burns to 70 per cent of his body in a devastating blaze at his Greek restaurant. Picture: GoFundMe

It is understood the fire started in the kitchen and was contained to the shop but neighbouring businesses had smoke and water damage.

Mr Ploubidis, a former SA Jockey Club chief executive, tried to put out the blaze but was seriously injured. He was taken to hospital with severe burns.

His eldest daughter, Daniella Carling, has since launched a GoFundMe seeking to raise $20,000 to help his wife Katya and three youngest children, aged between 2 and 8, while Mr Mr Ploubidis remains in hospital.

Platos Greek Chargrill at Walkerville was destroyed in the fire in early September. Picture: Ben Clark

She said her dad “sustained third degree burns affecting 70 per cent of his body” while trying to save the shop and had a long recovery ahead of him.

“When the roof started to collapse in the back kitchen, Dad was still inside trying to put the fire out to save Plato’s,” Ms Carling said.

“He is expected to remain in hospital for several months.”

Ms Carling said without the shop, Katya was unable to afford their mortgage and day-to-day expenses for her and the children.

Mr Ploubidis’ family has launched a GoFundMe to help cover living costs as he continues his recovery in hospital. Picture: GoFundMe

“Dad will also have ongoing medical expenses for at least the next 18 months following multiple surgeries (with more scheduled in the coming weeks),” she said.

“Katya is applying for support where possible, as insurance unfortunately won’t cover the loss. Our family are also trying to help out as much as possible.”

More than $10,000 has been donated through the fundraiser so far.

More than $10,000 of a $20,000 target has already been raised. Picture: GoFundMe

“We are so thankful to all our family and friends who have continued to support us. To everyone who helped dad on the day of the fire and pulled him out, and the burns unit at the RAH, we are forever grateful to you for saving his life,” Ms Carling said.

“Plato’s meant so much to dad for so many reasons, and he is very thankful for all the messages we’ve read to him from his customers and the community.”

She added that Mr Ploubidis hoped “to be able to see everyone again” and soon get “back to serving amazing Greek food”.

You can donate to the GoFundMe here.

Originally published as Steve Ploubidis, Plato’s Greek Chargrill owner and former SAJC executive, suffers third-degree burns, family launches GoFundMe