Historic Queensland pub gutted by fire
A much-loved Queensland hotel has been gutted by fire. The historic Bollon Hotel, which was the only pub in Bollon, could not be saved, despite Queensland Fire and Rescue (QFR) efforts.
The owners of the hotel issued a warning to nearby residents as did firefighters.
The hotel is located 630 kilometres west of Brisbane.
“Firefighters are working to extinguish the blaze, which is producing large volumes of smoke throughout the township,” a press release from QFR on Saturday night stated.
“Residents in the area should close windows and doors and keep respiratory medication close by if required.”
Following the fire, the hotel’s owners posted a Facebook warning to locals.
“We’re sad to announce that the Bollon Hotel burnt down this evening,” it said.
“We are still in shock and trying to come to terms with it. We are waiting to hear what emergency services can determine but at this stage we are just so very grateful that no one was harmed.
“Police and fire have asked if everyone can stay well away as the site is very dangerous and asbestos is involved.”
There was an outpouring of grief following the announcement.
“What a disaster for the town, losing the hotel is probably the worst thing can happen to a small town,” one former local wrote.
“I lived around Bollon many years ago and had a lot of drinks there. Let’s hope it can be replaced.”
Another wrote, “So sad, pubs are the cultural hubs for small towns. The meeting place for everyone to catch up.”
Jonathan Jackson, 24th February 2025
