Victorian Bushfires

1800 811 700 is the Red Cross’ phone number for cash donations to the ‘Victoria 2009 Bushfire Appeal’ or go online at http://www.redcross.org.au/vic/services_emergencyservices_victorian-bushfires-appeal-2009.htm. The Salvation Army are taking donations for its ‘Disaster Relief fund’ and people can contribute by calling 13 Salvos (137258) or by going online to www.salvos.org.au. ABC Radio Melbourne has issued a summary of ways to help and they can be found here: http://www.abc.net.au/local/stories/2009/02/06/2484632.htm. Cash donations to assist injured or homeless wildlife is welcomed by Wildlife Victoria http://www.wildlifevictoria.org.au/cms/index.php but they ask people DO NOT contact them except if they have injured wildlife. Should people wish to donate their time and services they should visit Go Volunteer on 1300 366 356 or register on their website www.govolunteer.com. Unfortunately we here in WA are limited as to what support we can provide - we can’t offer too much in the way of offering our homes and beds to people and animals. If people are unable to assist with cash donations but would like to donate goods we are warned that “there are a number of problems associated with donating goods. If people wish to donate goods these should be offered to a registered charity. There is no certainty that donated goods will be used” (http://www.dhs.vic.gov.au/emergency/current-events/bushfire/advice-for-people-wanting-to-help). This reinforces the need and preference for cash donations! We mustn’t forget about the devastating floods in North Queensland either! The same resources can be accessed to provide relief for these communities also.