Queensland Muslims raise $10,000 for Victoria’s bushfire victims

Queensland’s Muslim community has banded together to raise $10,000 for the victims of Victoria’s bushfire disaster.

The Muslim Business Network handed over a $10,000 cheque to Health Minister Stephen Robertson and Premier Anna Bligh at Parliament House in Brisbane today, which will go towards the bushfire relief effort.

Mr Robertson said the donation was a sign of Queenslanders’ solidarity with Victoria’s bushfire victims at a time of their greatest need.

“All Australians have been moved by the courage and strength in adversity shown by Victorians at this time of great tragedy,” he said.

“This donation, like those made by so many other Queenslanders, will make a real contribution to rebuilding the lives that have been shattered by this unprecedented natural disaster.

“It will help to provide essentials to families who have lost everything and aid rebuilding efforts in these shattered communities.”

Mr Robertson said the Muslim Business Network was well-known for its generosity, as one of the first organisations to make a sizeable donation to the Cyclone Larry relief fund within hours of its creation.

Muslim Business Network President Dr Mahomed Khatree said it was important for the community to stand together to aid Victoria’s bushfire victims.

“The members of the Muslim community are saddened by the loss of about 200 lives and 1000 homes due to the fires in Victoria,” he said.

“It is an unspeakable tragedy and it is our duty to help those that are affected. We hope our contribution helps in some way to ease the pain and suffering.”

Mr Robertson said Queensland Health has one burns surgeon and three burns nurses available on standby as part of the disaster relief effort.

Queensland Health has also offered DNA identification assistance, technical staff and mortuary staff as required, Mr Robertson said.

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