Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Innisfail (Fides Service) - To assist victims of cyclone Larry Catholics are in front line: as government aid begins to reach people in disaster areas of north east Queensland affected by the 19 March, cyclone, St Vincent de Paul Society is collecting and distributing food, medicines and blankets to the affected families. “We also intend to embark on long term aid projects until the people in the disaster area can resume normal life”, said local St Vincent operator John Campbell. Caritas Australia has also mobilised its resources asking donors to send offerings to the nearest St Vincent de Paul Society office whose network of infrastructures all over the area will facilitate the work of distributing relief aid where it is needed.
Australian army troops have been sent to assist victims in the small town of Innisfail and other parts of northern Queensland while rain continues to fall and flooding increases the fear of diseases such as dengue fever and hepatitis and many areas are cut off from power and water supplies.
It is estimated that the cyclone left 7,000 people homeless. However although there was serious damage no one was killed and only about 30 were injured thanks to prevention measures and early warning. As soon as the authorities gave the alarm people went to nearest shelters. Just hours after the cyclone’s arrival the Queensland authorities and the Australian government declared a state of emergency, sent army helicopters to join rescue operations and promised victims would receive compensation. The impact of the disaster on farming will be heavy. In Australia’s main banana, sugar cane and avocado producing area 80% of the harvest has been lost (Agenzia Fides 22/3/2006 righe 27 parole 276)
