Queensland Police don’t believe any of the victims were involved in the altercations before the blaze.
In 1992, a 22-year-old man was charged with murder and arson following a coronial inquest, but the charges were later dropped.
Joseph Trevor Ganter, 64 (left), and Desmond William Bemi, 59 (right), were among the five men to have died.Credit: Queensland Police
In 2008 police offered a $250,000 reward for information. That has now been doubled, with police reviewing the case after further information suggested the fire had been deliberately lit.
“With public assistance, irrespective of the passage of time, this crime can be solved, offenders can be brought to justice, and we can provide some answers,” Detective Senior Sergeant Tara Kentwell said in a statement.
“Although this offence occurred 34 years ago, detectives believe there are still people out there who hold information … who have not come forward, or have previously provided police an untrue account of events.”
Police say in addition to the $500,000 reward, indemnity from prosecution will be recommended to accomplices who provide information.
Witnesses can contact Crime Stoppers nationally on 1800 333 000 or on the website here.
-With AAP
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