Harristown house fire: Appeal, GoFundMe launched to support family of three children killed in Toowoomba blaze

FREE: The Queensland community has started opening its heart to a family struck by immense tragedy, after a suspicious Toowoomba house fire claimed the lives of three children. Here’s how you can support them:

An emergency appeal and GoFundMe campaign have been set up to support a Toowoomba family, following a horrific house fire that claimed the lives of three children.

Registered city charity Tony’s Community Kitchen has called for financial donations, of which 100 per cent would go to the family once further details were established.

“People can donate through their website, 100 per cent will go to the family,” co-ordinator Tony Hurle said.

“We’d love to raise $10,000, but we’ll see what happens.

“While it is early days into investigations, we the community have reached out to support those affected.”

It comes as a GoFundMe started by a friend of the family, Grace Halaufia, raised more than $1300 in less than a day.

“My dear friend Justin’s family have endured a tragic house fire which has caused devastation,” the campaign description read.

“I would like to start this fundraiser in hopes to raise money for his children, children’s medical expenses, accommodation, and other support needed in this hard time.

“Justin is a hard working disability support worker who has always put others before himself as well as a dedicated father.”

Neighbours leave a flowers and a teddy following a fatal house fire in Harristown, Thursday, May 8, 2025. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Queensland treasurer and Toowoomba South MP David Janetzki said the state government was providing assistance on the ground to residents, students and staff.

“The loss of three young lives in Harristown is devastating, and our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones affected,” he said.

“I want to acknowledge the immense bravery of our first responders, who were confronted with horrific and heartbreaking scenes as they worked to save lives.

“We are incredibly grateful for their dedication and courage.

“To the neighbours and members of our community who rushed to help in those first desperate moments — your selflessness and compassion in the face of such horror show the very best of the Toowoomba spirit.

“I have ensured that the government is providing assistance on the ground, including support for students, staff, and neighbours impacted by this tragedy.”

Toowoomba mayor Geoff McDonald said the extent of the loss to the Toowoomba community was “hard to comprehend”.

“We’ve seen young children now who have lost their lives, and it’s that’s the ultimate tragedy to see that happen, and the ripple effect that’s flowing through our community is evident,” he said.

“It’s important to send out our deepest condolences to those close to those who have lost their lives, making sure that they know that our community is here and we’ll rally to support them as well.”