Qld man allegedly destroys 40 pokies

A man who allegedly destroyed 40 pokie machines after setting fire to them at a southeast Queensland Hotel has been denied bail.

Blake Jones, 21 allegedly left the Beenleigh licensed premises earlier on Wednesday, before returning at about 8.40pm with petrol.

Police said three machines were completely destroyed after being doused in petrol, while another 37 are unable to be repaired due to exposure from chemicals.

Police also claimed at Southport Magistrates Court on Thursday that where the pokies were situated meant the building was likely to catch fire.

Jones was denied bail after the prosecution claimed the Beenleigh man had twice made threats to harm himself and others last month.

Magistrate Gary Finger said the man should be held in custody for "his own safety".

"In regard to your history of threats harm yourself and your actions today, you will be remanded in custody," Mr Finger said.

Jones will reappear at Beenleigh Magistrates Court next Thursday.