Gautam Gupta, Author and Spokesman for the Federation of Indian Students of Australia today
called upon all Indians to rally behind Queenslanders in one of their worst times.
He said, “we know that all Indians in Australia and around the world are concerned with the tragedy
in Queensland caused by recent flooding. Although the full extent of the damage is yet to be known,
the damage till date has been unprecedented.”
Indians have always supported any effort to rebuild the community and given generously. Indians
from all backgrounds including temples, businesses and students have donated their time, money
and efforts in rebuilding Victoria after the deadly bushfire tragedy.
Gautam said, “it is time that once again we look into our hearts and pockets and help rebuild an
even stronger Queensland.”
He said, “We are concerned that amongst the thousands on victims of this tragedy, there are a
number of Indian students. These students will be doing very tough and our hearts go out to them
and their loved ones. Some concerned parents have called to enquire about the situation. We have
contacted people in our network in Brisbane to be updated on the situation. We will encourage all
students to call us to keep us informed and if there is a need for any assistance. However we would
encourage everyone to contact established support services before.”
He said, “FISA is an unfunded body and DOES NOT collect any money or funds to be disbursed.
We are however supporting the established support systems.”
Gautam said, “Queensland government has setup a 24 hour information line at 1300 993 191; all
major channels are running 24/7 info centres and all concerned for their relatives and friends must
call these numbers. We will do whatever we can if anyone is concerned .”
It was also suggested that everyone follows the advice provided by support agencies. There are
many people not evacuating the area despite calls from authority. During these difficult times, it
is tough to try to save your businesses or worry about attendances. There are hundreds of good
samaritans in Victoria and indeed across Australia, who will open their homes to people being
evacuated from the disaster hit area.
He also asked all Indians to donate to the fund established by the Queensland Premier, Anna
Bligh. Cheques can be made out to the Premiers Disaster Relief Appeal, or go to the Queensland
Government website, www.qld.gov.au/floods. The account details for online donations are:
Account Name: Premier’s Disaster Relief Appeal
BSB: 064 013
Account number: 1000 6800
SWIFT code for international donations: CTBAAU2S
He suggested that people must NOT donate to fly by night operators. Every charity collecting
money or other goods for the relief must be registered and unfortunately some people fall prey to
these thugs and the victims suffer.
Media Enquiries: Gautam Gupta; contact@gautamgupta.com.au; 0413 211 534
Source: Media Release
