Christchurch offers help to Victoria

Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker today (10 February) offered the city’s assistance to the State of Victoria in the grip of Australia’s deadliest bushfires.

“On behalf of the City of Christchurch, I have sent our thoughts and prayers to the Premier John Brumby and the people of Victoria who are experiencing some of their worst bushfires in many years.”

Mr Parker told the Premier “the city is saddened to learn about the loss of life and the devastation of homes and communities” in Victoria.

“This is a tragedy for Victoria, a State which has many linkages with Canterbury. I have offered the Premier any assistance we can practically provide as a local authority.”

Mr Parker says he realises there may be little practical assistance the city can give, however, it is important to express the thoughts in the minds of many in the community.

“We want our Australian friends to know that we care, we are thinking of them and wish there was more we could do to ease their pain.”

He says the devastation in Victoria is a brutal reminder of the same risks which exist in Canterbury with prevailing tinder dry conditions and our fire risk sitting on high.