Hostel inquest

TWO managers of an Outback hostel that burned down in an arson attack that killed 15 guests, including Irishwoman Julie O’Keefe from Limerick, refused yesterday to give evidence to a coroner investigating whether the hostel should face charges.

Robert Paul Long was found guilty of starting the blaze at the Palace Backpackers Hostel in Childers, on June 23, 2000.

A coroner’s inquest is hearing evidence to determine whether charges should be brought over an alleged lack of adequate emergency escape routes.

Co-managers John Thomas Dobe and Christian Verdon Atkinson refused to give evidence at the inquest on the basis that their answers could incriminate them.