FROM LES LOUIS, ROTARY CLUB OF WYNNUM AND MANLY
Jim Byrne, a very active and involved member of the Rotary Club of Wynnum and Manly, is a native of Thargomindah in far western Queensland. Jim was dismayed at the extent of the devastation caused by the recent floods and was determined to assist in whatever way he could. Another member, Kai Eberspaecher, also has business and personal connections in the area and was keen to help by giving to the community through ‘virtual purchases’ at local shops, the Council Flood appeal, and the Rotary Disaster Fund. Together, they are making a great contribution to the flood recovery effort.
Jim joined the project team established by the two Rotary Districts covering western Queensland to implement a three-pronged approach to a multi-phase response to this disaster:
1. Phase 1: Immediate Financial Assistance
2. Phase 2: Coordination of Essential Goods
3. Phase 3: Mental Health Support
Approximately 133 households were affected by this event, and the Bulloo Shire Council launched a fundraising campaign to provide immediate assistance to residents in replacing items such as clothing, furniture, and appliances lost. The Rotary Club of Wynnum and Manly made an immediate donation of $1000 to this campaign and contributed another $4000 to the Rotary Fund for ongoing assistance.
Cash payments to residents and Phase 2 of the response are underway. In addition, Andersen’s Carpets has made a very generous donation of carpets to local businesses and is installing them. The Rotary Fund will match Andersen’s donation so that they will have at least half of their flooring costs donated.
Helping businesses survive and providing residents with a helping hand will help keep the town alive.
