Premier’s Flood Appeal cracks $6 million

TOWNSVILLE: The Premier’s North and North-West Flood Appeal has this morning topped $6 million.

“It is now $6.032 million and still rising. One of the donations has been of $343 from the prisoners at Maryborough Correctional Centre. I’m told they have also donated to the Victorian fire victims and are very proud of it,” said Ms Bligh.

“Thanks to them and to all 19,425 donors thus far.”

As well 50%of the profits from the Sydney concert (14/3/09) of last weekend’s Sydney-Melbourne Sound relief bushfire concerts is to go to the Premier’s Flood Appeal.

Premier Anna Bligh thanked the Commonwealth its $500,000for and again thanked the general public, industry and the concert performers and concert-goers for their support.

“It has been incredibly hard for Victorian fire victims and for those in the north and North West, but it is so heartening knowing fellow Queenslanders, Aussies and our PNG neighbours are digging deep.”

The State Government launched the Appeal on February 6 with $500,000. Major donors so far include: the PNG Government $1 million, 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, CSR Limited $50,000, Bank of Queensland $50,000, Gold Coast City Council, Adventist Development and Relief Agency Trust, Logan City Council $30,000, Caltex, Queensland Hotel Association, AWB Ltd $25,000, Sunshine Coast regional Council $20,000, Data #3 $11250, and Eric Donald Aldridge, the Australian Credit Union and Mr I. and Mr M. Howard-Smith each donated $10,000.

“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