MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
The Australian Government will assist with relief and rehabilitation efforts in Tonga in the aftermath of Cyclone Cora.
Tropical Cyclone Cora struck the Kingdom of Tonga on 26 December 1998. The destructive force of the winds caused extensive damage to plantation crops and sources of food supplies throughout the country.
Many private and community dwellings were totally destroyed with hundreds more partially destroyed. There was extensive damage caused to many schools and some public buildings.
Damage was caused to the Foa Causeway in Ha'apai, the Ha'apai wharf and marine navigation aids. The Ha'apai water system suffered damage and was closed down, with electricity networks also damaged and partially or totally shut down.
Tonga's National Disaster Committee has now tabled its report on the extent of damage caused by the cyclone. The Government of Tonga has requested assistance from donors for the urgent repair of public infrastructure and provision of food aid.
Australia will contribute up to $200,000 towards relief activities, focused on the Ha'apai group of islands.
The funding will be used for activities such as repairing damage to schools and teachers' housing enabling students to return to their normal school routine. It will also enable repairs to extensively damaged wharves which are hindering the transportation of urgently needed supplies to the islands.
Funds will also be used to supply and transport seedlings, fertilisers and spraying equipment to assist the replanting of traditional crops lost during the cyclone.
The funding will be channelled through local organisations and will be provided from the emergency relief budget managed by AusAID, the Australian Government's overseas aid agency.
Media contacts:
Innes Willox (Minister's Office) 02 6277 7500 / 0419 206 890
Matt Francis (AusAID) 02 6206 4960 / 0417 683 126