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Order of Malta Australia

News

Tonga volcano eruption appeal

20/01/2022 


Images by the New Zealand Defense Force showed the initial extent of damage in Tonga — with buildings severely damaged and gray ash covering the ground

As you have no doubt seen in the media, on Saturday a volcanic eruption and subsequent tsunami in Tonga has left homes destroyed and resulted in thousands evacuated and a rising death toll.

The small island nation remains all but cut off from the outside world as damaged fibre-optic cables limit communications and ash from the eruption affects water supplies and prevents air arrivals.

The Tongan government yesterday issued its first official statement since the eruption, describing the incident an “unprecedented disaster”.  Whilst the full scale of the damage is being assessed, satellite images show smoke and ashes blanketing the islands and extensive damage with all but the largest buildings destroyed or severely damaged.

Despite limited communications in these early days, it is clear that there will be a significant emergency relief effort and longer term recovery for the people of Tonga. New Zealand Regional Hospitaller, Bevan Killick, who has numerous connections in Tonga is making enquiries as to how we can best assist.

We please ask you consider a tax deductible donation to our Emergency Relief Fund so that we can respond quickly to emerging needs in Tonga following this disaster.

The Australian Association

The Australian Association, formed in 1974, currently has in excess of 300 members and aspirant members across every State and Territory of Australia. We also have ongoing and strong links with the Order’s National Associations throughout the Asia Pacific Region including in Singapore and the Philippines and with members of the Order in New Zealand, Hong Kong SAR, Thailand and Korea. The Order of Malta is committed to serving Our Lords the Poor and Sick worldwide and has done so for over 900 years. This website shares with you the history, mission and current activities of the Order of Malta in Australia, and provides links to the work of the Order world-wide.