Investigators rule out arson
Wednesday February 13 2002

Police are not treating as suspicious the fire which destroyed a historic hospital building at Quarantine Station last week.

"Indications are that it was caused by an electrical fault," a police spokesman said yesterday.

"It is not believed to be suspicious."

Build in 1833, the hospital building was destroyed by fire which began about 3pm on Thursday.

It came just four months after fire destroyed another 1883 building at the station.

The police spokesman said the NSW Coroner would make a final ruling on the cause of the fire.

Pittwater MP and Opposition environmental protection spokesman John Brogden has called for a comprehensive review of safety and security at Quarantine Station.

"A review of the electrical systems of all the buildings on the site must immediately be undertaken to ensure that no other buildings are at risk," he said.

"(Environment Minister) Mr. Debus is shortchanging the people of NSW by failing to maintain and protect a valuable part of their heritage."