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Mackay Airport supports the Tropical Cyclone Larry appeal

Originally published on 21 March 2006

Mackay Airport general manager Trevor Heard, Tempo security officer Jill Avery and Member for Mackay Tim Mulherin, count money donated to the appeal this morning.

Member for Mackay Tim Mulherin and the Mackay Port Authority are encouraging airports throughout the State to join in the relief effort for people affected by Tropical Cyclone Larry.

The Queensland Government launched the fundraising drive with a $100 000 donation to the Premier's Disaster Relief Appeal. The donation has been matched by the Federal Government and a $50 000 pledge by the Commonwealth Bank.

Passengers entering the security departure lounge at Mackay Airport are tossing their change into a collection box to help the victims of the ferocious tropical storm that battered Innisfail and surrounding communities with 295km/h winds on Monday morning.

Mackay Airport workers backed the Premier's appeal with a $150 donation this morning.

Primary Industries Minister Tim Mulherin, who will inspect the devastation caused by Queensland's worst cyclone in more than four decades on Thursday, has called on airports throughout the country to follow the initiative launched by the Mackay Port Authority this morning.

"At the end of the day every little bit helps - and people can be guaranteed that every cent donated will reach the people in need," Mr Mulherin said.

Rather than carrying their 'small change' through security - passengers this morning were more than happy to drop it into the donation box.

This is a case of Aussie helping Aussie. You can't help but to be shocked by the devastation and heartbreak caused by Cyclone Larry.

Mr Mulherin said early estimates suggest the damage bill could top more than half a billion dollars - the cost to the banana industry alone is expected to reach $300 million.

Mackay Airport general manager Trevor Heard said a similar appeal at the airport co-ordinated by The Daily Mercury raised almost $2000 for the victims of the Asian Tsunamis.

The people that need help this time are our ‘neighbours' - if this morning is any indication I'm certain people will continue to give generously, he said.

Donations can also be lodged at the Commonwealth Bank using the relief appeal account BSB: 064-013 Acct No: 1000-6800.