BUSINESS FIRE FIGHT
THE owner of a clothing store destroyed by a fire on Saturday says he plans to have the business up and running again soon.
The fire broke out about 12.30pm at Cueldee School Uniforms Townsville on Charles St in Aitkenvale.
Cueldee School Uniforms Townsville owner Marco Parigi said he was already planning the for the store’s reopening.
“Starting today ( Sunday) we are looking at getting back up and running as soon as possible for the sake of our staff and customers,” Mr Parigi said.
“I was the only person on the premises at the time of the fire.
“I am unhurt apart from minor smoke inhalation and shock.
“I am back to full forward- planning mode to what I need to get done in all aspects of my business.
“I just wanted to say thank you to everyone who has offered kind words and help and hugs and support to both myself and my whole family.”
Mr Parigi said some school uniform stock might be salvageable.
Early investigations show the fire started on the ground floor of the business and it may have ignited from machinery.
It is understood welding work was being done on the first floor, before the owner walked downstairs and found flames and smoke filling the room.
District Duty Officer Senior Sergeant Scot Warrick said the fire was not being treated as suspicious at this stage.
“There is some indication that a worker or some welding equipment may have caused the fire,” Sen- Sgt Warrick said. “A person has left the building after completing work.
“At about 12.30pm the owner has started smelling smoke and has entered the ground floor of the building and noticed smoke and flames inside the building.”
Townsville Fire Station Officer John McMahon said the building was well alight when firefighters arrived. “At this stage the fire is under investigation. It’s only at an early stage,” he said.
“The contents and the structure was well involved upon arrival and there was extensive damage to the structure and the contents.
“The owner of the premise was outside at the time and was overcome by smoke and was attended to by ambulance officers.”