Owners reeling after fire

FORENSIC investigators will on Monday return to the scene of a devastating fire that destroyed two family-owned businesses in Mareeba in the early hours of Friday.

Both Hort Street Cafe and Floral Magic Mareeba were destroyed by the blaze, which took hold about midnight.

A third business also suffered significant damage.

Police said preliminary investigations suggested the fire was not suspicious.

Over the weekend, a QPS spokeswoman said the building was unsafe to enter due to risk of collapse and the presence of asbestos, and the cause of the fire was as yet undetermined.

Both businesses took to social media to thank emergency services for their efforts.

Owners of the Hort St Cafe Neil and Debbie Sweedman posted to Facebook thanking everyone for their support.

“We are in shock and disbelief, at this stage we have no idea how it started, police are investigating,” the post said.

They said their hearts went out to the owners of Floral Magic Mareeba, Renee and Taylor Hughes.

“Thank you also to the police and fire brigade for their mammoth efforts.”

The Sweedmans only took over ownership of the Hort St Cafe this month.

In a post to Facebook, Floral Magic Mareeba also extended their thanks to emergency services.

“As you could imagine the Hughes family has received a devastating blow both financially and personally,” the post said.

“We have had overwhelming support from the community. We’re asking for a moment to allow them to recoup as they have not only lost their business but all their records.

“If you have ordered with Floral Magic or have an upcoming event please email us.”