The WA mining and resources sector continues to support communities affected by devastating floods in the Kimberley through significant donations to relief funds and on-the-ground contributions to organisations leading the flood response.
The Chamber of Minerals and Energy of WA’s (CME) Acting Director of Policy and Advocacy Adrienne LaBombard said the thoughts of the entire sector were with the people of the Kimberley, with member companies standing ready to assist in any way they could.
“The scale of these floods is nearly unimaginable and the WA mining and resources sector is committed to supporting affected communities,” Ms LaBombard said.
“Our industry employs people from around the Kimberley and mining has been part of the fabric of the region for almost 140 years.
“A range of our member companies have donated nearly $8 million to relief efforts, including through the Lord Mayor’s Disaster Relief Fund. I’m sure there will be more donations coming through in weeks and months to come.
“Our members are helping wherever and however they can, with physical work being done to assist people, businesses and community organisations which have been impacted by this significant natural disaster.”
CME State Manager – Regional WA Susan Cull said she was in regular contact with CME member companies with operations in the Kimberley.
“Community support is a key to the success of mining and resources sector operations around WA and the Kimberley is no different. Our members are very passionate about giving back to their communities,” Ms Cull said.
“This includes taking the opportunity to assist the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES), the Department of Communities and a variety of other community and government organisations that are leading critical response work.
“I know Mt Gibson Iron, for example, is helping DFES with barge activities at both Derby and Broome to deliver much-needed food, fuel and other supplies to communities in need. INPEX is another major company that is providing assistance, including making available a helicopter service used in its operations to transport people to safety.
“Our member companies are in awe of the amazing work being done by all responders to the flood crisis and are committed to pitching in with whatever assistance is required.
“The recovery and rebuild from the floods is clearly going to be a long road but the WA mining and resources sector will stand by Kimberley communities for the duration.”
CME member companies wishing to donate to Kimberley flood relief efforts can do so through:
- The Lord Mayor’s Disaster Relief Fund – which makes funds available to individuals/households impacted by the floods);
- GIVIT – which is working with the WA Government to manage donation offers during recovery from these floods. GIVIT makes funds available to relevant not-for profit organisations who provide on-the-ground support and individuals can also use its platform to donate required items; and
- The Australian Red Cross – the Red Cross has not set up an appeal specific to the Kimberley floods but has sent a team to the region and is working closely with the Department of Communities. A donation to the Red Cross Emergency Services helps power their teams to be ready and prepared to respond to emergencies like this one.
