The Toowoomba community is rallying around those affected by the tragic earthquake in the Kurdish region of Túrkiye and Syria again showing why it's one of Australia's most welcoming regions.
An online service for those who may not be able to locate loved ones through the disaster has begun and a vigil will be held with key Toowoomba landmarks to light up to commemorate those lost and injured in the disaster which has claimed thousands of lives and injured and displaced scores more.
Toowoomba Region Deputy Mayor Cr Geoff McDonald said Toowoomba would do all it could to support those caught up in the disaster and to assist loved ones from Túrkiye and Syria living in Toowoomba.
"The earthquake disaster in Túrkiye and Syria is on a massive scale and has become the world's deadliest seismic event in more than a decade.
"In 2013 Toowoomba was officially declared a Refugee Welcome Zone and has helped to resettle many families of Túrkish and Syrian background.
"Many of those families will have loved ones back home impacted and we want to show that Toowoomba is thinking of them and has support services in place at this awful time.
"On Thursday 16 February at 6pm, Toowoomba Regional Council will be hosting a vigil at the Civic Square for those lost in the earthquake," Cr McDonald said.
The Australian Red Cross has launched an online service for those who cannot locate their family and loved ones impacted by the disaster. The Restoring Families Link is available at Find My Family: Restoring Family Links | Australian Red Cross
"In a further show of support, key Toowoomba landmarks like City Hall, The Annex and Victoria Street Bridge will light up in special colours at the time of the vigil to further show Toowoomba's support," Cr McDonald said.
Impacted Toowoomba residents are encouraged to seek support through the Toowoomba office of the Australian Red Cross by calling (07) 3333 8733.
