Rotary District 9800
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Rebuilding Samoa following 2009 Earthquake
On September 29th 2009 a large earthquake occurred in the Pacific Ocean. Three to eight minutes later a tsunami hit the shores of Samoa and, without warning, the lives of the Samoan people were changed forever.
On hearing the news of the devastation and loss of life, the members of the Rotary Club of Bendigo, who have a long association with Samoa and its people, were at first shocked and saddened but these initial reactions quickly turned to thoughts of what could be done to assist. Two of the club members visited Samoa and, while being further shocked by the extent of the damage, the information gathered during the visit has been used for the development of the Rebuilding Samoa Project.
The project has received the support of District 9800 who have advised other district Clubs that the Rotary Club of Bendigo will leed the District’s efforts to assist Samoa in its time of need.
The vision is to use the well proven model for the provision of aid in Samoa to send up to 50 teams of Rotary Volunteers to assist in the rebuilding effort by working alongside the tsunami survivors to provide safe and reliable drinking water at up to 25 new or reconstructed villages.
The model to be used recognises the importance of:
- Talking and listening to members of the local Rotary Club and the aid recipients to identify needs;
- Utilisation of assistance available from RAWCS for Volunteers; and
- Volunteers living and working with aid recipients.
Initial estimates of the requirements of the valuable work that could be done include 500 Volunteers and $1,000,000 for tools, materials and freight. While the Rotary Club of Bendigo is ready, willing and able to provide the expertise, the organisation and volunteer recruitment required, the $1,000,000 presents a significant challenge.
Rotary Clubs, other organisations, businesses and individuals are invited to assist in ensuring the aid provided is that which is needed and for which the capability exists, rather than the availability of funds.
The desire to assist is driven by the strength of the personal relationships that exist as a result of working in Samoa, with Samoans, over the last 17 years.
With the help of Rotarians, Rotary Clubs and the Rotary family we will play a significant role in Rebuilding Samoa
For further information, please contact us or Colin Burns from the Rotary Club of Bendigo.
