Sunshine Coast residents are all too familiar with the devastation natural disasters can bring.
Disastrous bushfires have burnt through millions of hectares across the country this season, destroying at least 1,700 homes and sadly, claiming more than 20 lives.
Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the many residents across multiple states who are reeling from the impacts of bushfires on top of the drought and other impacts.
We know that our generous Sunshine Coast community wants to lend a hand and is also asking how they can best donate to people affected by the fires and to frontline emergency services.
After all, it's all about mates helping mates in true Aussie spirit.
Let's show the communities across Queensland and our southern counterparts that we care. Feel free to provide support any way you can.
How you can support those affected by bushfires:
- GIVIT – http://givit.org.au/
- AUSTRALIAN RED CROSS – https://www.redcross.org.au/campaigns/disaster-relief-and-recovery-donate
- FOODBANK (choose the state you would like to donate to) – https://www.foodbank.org.au
- SALVATION ARMY – https://www.salvationarmy.org.au/donate/make-a-donation/donate-online/?appeal=disasterappeal
- ST VINCENT DE PAUL – https://donate.vinnies.org.au/appeals-nsw/vinnies-nsw-bushfire-appeal-nsw
How you can support affected wildlife:
- RSPCA Queensland – https://www.rspcaqld.org.au/,
- RSCPA New South Wales https://www.rspcansw.org.au/bushfire-appeal/
- RSPCA Victoria https://rspcavic.org/giving/donate
- WIRES – https://www.wires.org.au/donate/emergency-fund
How you can support firefighters:
- Queensland via the Rural Fire Brigades Association - https://www.rfbaq.org/donate-to-a-brigade
- NSW RFS – https://bit.ly/2umf1Fi
- VIC CFA – https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/about/supporting-cfa
- SA CFS – https://cfsfoundation.org.au/donate
How to volunteer
For those looking to volunteer, the best way to enlist is through Volunteering Australia.
If you are not in a position to make a cash donation, you may be able to assist a local charity with their fundraising campaigns.
Stay tuned for updates on additional local responses and fund raising activities.
