Premier’s Flood appeal hits $4.8 million

CAIRNS: The Premier’s North and North-West Flood Appeal has hit $4.86 million – bolstered by a $1 million from the Papua New Guinea Government and $100,000 from the Newcastle Region Trust .

And the Premier Anna Bligh has confirmed she has been advised that 50% of the profits from the Sydney concert of the simultaneous Sydney-Melbourne bushfire concerts on Saturday week (14/3/09) will be directed to the Premier’s Flood Appeal as well.

Premier Anna Bligh thanked the Papua New Guinea Government, the general public, industry and the up-coming concert performers and concert-goers for their support for flood-affected north and north-west Queenslanders.

“The start of the year has been hard for Victorian fire victims and for those up here in the north and the North West, but it is refreshing to know fellow Queenslanders, Aussies and our PNG neighbours are digging deep.

“They, along with the people of Newcastle, are returning the favour. It is a great tradition and on behalf of all Queenslanders I say thanks to all who have contributed to help those in need.”

The State Government launched the Appeal on February 6 with $500,000. Major donors so far include: Rio Tinto $250,000, Woolworths $150,000, Queensland Gas Company and Newcastle Region Natural Disaster Relief Fund Trust, $100,000.

Others include; Felix resources (staff and company) $71,750, Bank of Queensland $50,000, Adventist Development and Relief Agency Trust $30,000, Queensland Hotel Association, AWB Ltd $25,000, Data #3 $11250, and Eric Donald Aldridge, the Australian Credit Union and Mr I. and Mr M. Howard-Smith each donated $10,000.

As at Tuesday there have been 17,861 donors.

“Having seen flood devastation first-hand, it is obvious that the clean-up and our response will be over many months.

“I’m still urging everyone to dig deep and lend a helping hand to all of those Queenslanders who have suffered through this widespread flooding,” Ms Bligh said.

“No donation – whether it be $20 or $2 – is too small. Every dollar will be directed toward helping victims.

“You can donate to the Premier’s Disaster Relief Appeal Fund at any of the big banks including the Commonwealth, Westpac, NAB, ANZ, Suncorp Metway and the Bank of Queensland.

“Cheques can be made out to the Premier’s Disaster Relief Appeal Fund.

Or donors can contact the Smart Services Queensland Call Centre on 1800 173 349 with their credit card details. This line will be open 24 hours a day.

The Appeal will remain open for at least another 10 weeks.

All donations are tax deductible and distribution of the funds will be undertaken by the Red Cross.

Media: Premier’s Office 3224 4500