Media Releases

Bushfire appeal

23 February 2009

In one of the worst bushfire disasters in Australian history, The Victorian Lebanese Community Council has called on the Lebanese community and in particular to the business community to donate to the victims of the bushfire embattle residents in the affected areas of Victoria. The repercussions of this unprecedented disaster involve more than the tragic loss of life and homes, also leaving many with considerable injuries, displacement of people from their families and homes, destroyed communities and loss of native animals. Many Australians have been left in need of assistance and thus we urge the Lebanese and Arabic community to donate clothes, shoes, children’s toys, blankets, toiletries and any other necessary items. Please clearly group and label items donated to enable efficient distribution to the recipients.

The Lebanese community response to this event was overwhelming with more than $30,000 worth of goods being collected and delivered to Whittlesea’s Community Centre. A1 Lebanese Bakery, located in Brunswick, Lalor and Dandenong is generously donating one day of their profits to the bushfire victims on Wednesday, February 25th. SBS Arabic radio program on 93.2FMand 97.7FM also managed to raise $91,500 in a single hour on the air.

VLCC would like to thank the Lebanese business community for their support and acknowledge the generous donations received by:

Sheik Taba Wholesaler (Brunswick)
Charkas Middle East Foods (Thomastown)
Kadamani Lebanese Bakery (Brunswick)
Middle east Bakery (Brunswick)
A1 Lebanese Bakery (Brunswick)
Amira Foods (Altona North)
Rassitex (Talors Like)
N.S.M (Brunswick)
Byblos Pty Ltd (Mount Waverley)
Jasper Pizza (Mackinnon)
River Walk Café (Melbourne)
Bunyip Pizza (Bunyip)
Hoffman Rd Fish & Chips (Niddrie)
French's IGA (Glen Waverly)
Dandy Diner food shops (Dandenong)
Advanced Natural (Moorabbin)
Toto's Pizza (Carlton)

VLCC would like to thank the generous donations made in this trying time and encourage the community to maintain its enthusiasm and good will during this on going disaster.