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National tragedies shock and sadden Uni staff
14 February 2009
I think it is inconceivable in the context of the suffering in North Queensland and even moreso in Victoria, that I didn’t extend the deep sorrow of the University community to the people of those regions at this time.
Everyone has been moved by the scale and horror of the bushfire tragedy in Victoria in particular. Individuals have been contributing to collections, and groups have organised fundraising activities. On behalf of the whole University community we have also sent $10,000 to the Victoria Bush Fire Appeal Fund. So, yet again, the University community has responded to a national tragedy.
Even with the millions already raised, with the generosity of so many Australians, it will be a long and difficult process to rebuild communities and dislocated lives.
I was in Aberfan in South Wales in the 1960’s when a coal tip slid in heavy rain, killed 144 children in a primary school in a sea of slime. Knowing so many of the people as personal friends, experiencing the length of the recovery time, and becoming dejected over the conflicts about the use of charitable monies, resulted in personal experiences that I still remember vividly.
The Victorian situation is clearly one where we see the best and worst of humanity. The arsonists, the fraudulent charity collectors, the looters, are people who are shameful.
But overwhelmingly, the generosity, the caring, the helping, the selfless fire-fighting, the humour in the face of adversity, the attention given to sick animals, and the list of good, goes on and on, and is quite inspirational.
I know that Victorian universities are more directly involved, with some staff in serious circumstances.
Again, I just wanted this opportunity to convey on behalf of all of us at the University, that we feel for you in North Queensland and Victoria at this time, and sincerely hope that the reconstruction of homes and lives can begin soon, and have successful outcomes.
Professor Paul Thomas AM is Vice-Chancellor and President at the University of the Sunshine Coast.