LONDON (CU)_Earlier this year, Australia experienced two of the most devastating natural disasters which destroyed hundreds of homes across Western Australia. The first was the Perth Hills bushfires which struck the city in February, burning through 9,000 hectares and destroying dozens of homes. Six firefighters were said to have sustained injuries during the disaster. The second was Tropical Cyclone Seroja, which not only damaged hundreds of houses but also killed a 38-year-old maintenance worker when it struck the Western Australia’s mid-west in April. According to WA Premier Mark McGowan, the cyclone was “like nothing we have seen before in decades”.
Accordingly, the Lord Mayor’s Distress Relief Fund (LMDRF), which was established in conjunction with the State Government, has been raising funds for the victims of the two devastating disasters. As of 30 June, a total of $7.6 million (£4.1m) was raised for the cyclone victims and $16.4m (£8.9m) for bushfire victims. Now it has been revealed that these sums include two donations made by the Prince of Wales, although the amount of his donations have not been disclosed.
Welcoming His Royal Highness’ contribution, Lord Mayor of the City of Perth, Basil Zempilas, said: “The Prince of Wales has provided a very generous donation to the LMDRF. It is an honour and a privilege to accept this donation and I thank His Royal Highness and the office of The Prince of Wales for working with us to make this happen.”
He also expressed his gratitude towards the community of Western Australia for their generosity as well. “We have already seen the people of Western Australia, businesses across Western Australia and the eastern states respond with warmth, generosity and donations to assist those affected by these twin disasters in WA this year,” he said.
