Money raised for the Australia Bush Fire appeal fund, set up by Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland to support victims of the devastating bushfires in Australia, has been handed over to Australian Rotarians.
More than £34,000 was raised by Rotary clubs across Great Britain and Ireland who immediately leapt into action after hearing of the worst bushfires in Australias history which swept through Victoria on 7th February 2009 which claimed the lives of 178 people.
Thanks to the unique set up of Rotary, clubs were able to link up with fellow members in Australia to establish what aid was needed and ensure that funds raised are received on the ground and distributed where they are needed.
Ian Thomson, President of RIBI said: “Like the rest of the world, Rotarians all over these islands have been profoundly saddened by the tragedy of the bushfires.
“Rotary International is renowned for its volunteer response to natural disasters throughout the world, lending a hand wherever possible. We hope this donation will at least help to alleviate some of the suffering these families have endured.”
Australian Rotarian Don Jago from Marysville in Victoria, where 46 people died, accepted a cheque from RIBI president Ian Thomson last week at the Rotary International Birmingham Convention (pictured).
[IMG: 565 hspace=”0″ height=”227″ width=”303″ vspace=”0″ border=”0″ alt=”Cheque donated to Don Jago”]Don said: “The help that has come in on an unsolicited basis has been tremendous. To receive donations from so far away and knowing that people are thinking of us has been very important to us.”
The £34,126.97 will be used to help rebuild the affected communities in Victoria, in particular it will be used to build children’s play areas devastated by the fires.
