The Australian Floods

Dear Colleagues,

Nature has unleashed its fury on Australia and the news keeps getting worse.

Flooding has affected 75% of Queensland, an area bigger than Germany and France combined, and now it appears to be Brisbane’s turn—followed by the northern part of New South Wales.

Ten people have lost their lives, many more are missing and hundreds of houses have been destroyed.

For the lucky survivors, the memories of a lifetime—photo albums, books, children’s toys have been washed away forever.

I know that everyone at Macquarie is worrying about the flood victims and thinking of how we can help.

I have contacted the universities in affected areas offering Macquarie’s assistance with student and staff accommodation and anything else that we might be able to do.

The Queensland government has established a special website for those who wish to make a financial contribution. Thus far, Australians have donated more than $30 million but much more will be needed.

There will be more opportunities to help when the floods recede and the cleanup begins. In the meantime, we can keep the victims in our thoughts and prayers.

Steven Schwartz,
Vice-Chancellor.

Contact: Kylie Colvin

Phone: Ext 7440

Publish Date: 12 Jan 2011