House Fire

The President of the Children's Cancer Institute, Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride, Rob Ibell had his house in the Townsville suburb of West End totally destroyed by fire today. It was a traditional Queenslander and all that remains is the 2.4m high concrete stumps.

Everyone was at work so no injuries and fortunately fully insured but they have lost all their personal stuff like wedding photos and family history.

Dont know if they have lost the bikes too.

Very sad, a great guy and a "driven" voluntary worker for childrens cancer research fundraising.

Hugh

Latest news is that there has been a great response from the community.
An appeal has been launched by the Townsville West Community Centre (TWCC). Donations can be sent to TWCC at 15 Lonerganne St, Garbutt, 4814, Qld or messages of support faxed to TWCC on 07 4779 7268 or email twccinc@bigpond.com.
They have lost everything so its going to be hard for them to set up again. Robs bike is ok as it was not in the house as the wheels were away at the LBS. He lost all his riding clothing, shoes, helmet, camelback and all the other nick nacks it takes to ride a bike.
Already local toy and sports stores have given heaps of things for their 2 young children.
Its early days yet but I think that the Childrens Cancer riders ( couple of hundred of us) and the local cycling community will probably organise some sort of benefit function.

Article from Townsville Bulletin

Cheers
Hugh