Neerkol inquiry raises questions of what will happen with orphanage buildings

By Jacquie Mackay
ABC Brisbane
April 14, 2015

http://blogs.abc.net.au/queensland/2015/04/neerkol-inquiry-raises-questions-of-what-will-happen-with-orphanage-buildings.html

As you'd probably be aware the Royal Commission hearing on the St Joseph's orphanage at Neerkol begins today, but what of the former orphanage buildings?

The site is now owned by Stanwell Corporation which has closed off the area to the public, but a couple of years ago a petition called for the restoration and opening of the Orphanage, Grounds and Burial Sites to the public.

Belinda Brown began the petition because she says that families, friends & the public have a right to honour, remember and grieve the Neerkol story.

Stanwell representatives will not be providing comment in regard to the Neerkol buildings at this time, but a spokesperson says it is currently agisting the land which was purchased in 2000 as buffer land for the nearby power station. The spokesman says the company has no plans to change the current use of the area. He says the buildings are currently fenced off due to safety concerns. A memorial was erected along the highway some years ago.