General News
28 January, 2022
The Court House goes Red for Tonga
FOLLOWING the unprecedented natural disaster in Tonga two weeks ago, Cairns Court House is lit up in red light in a show of support for the Tongan community until Saturday, January 29.
The eruption of an underwater volcano near Tonga on January 14 was thought to be the biggest recorded on the planet for more than 30 years.
The eruption and subsequent tsunami caused widespread damage to the nation, composed of more than 170 South pacific islands, and unfortunately, a few people have died.
President of the Pacific Communities Council FNQ (PCCFNQ), Dinah John, said when news broke about the volcanic eruption, the local Pasifika families were aware of the possible ramifications.
“We knew that we would have to prepare for the worst, and it happened,” she said.
“The communication lines are slowly being restored in Tonga, but they are not at their peak. So we’ve had families here struggling to find out new information from any of their families in Tonga.
“There have been situations where families from here have just managed to call their loved ones, and the phone lines have cut out within the first few minutes, and they can’t seem to get them back again.”
“The heartbreak of not hearing from your brother, sister, parents, children, nieces, nephews or other immediate can become an enormous emotional strain on your health and well-being.”
Cairns Mayor Bob Manning said the local Tongan community was understandably concerned about the welfare of family and loved ones from their homeland.
“This is a difficult time for our Pacific Islander community, especially as many are unable to speak with family and friends in Tonga,” Cr Manning said
“I wish to extend my support for our Pacific Islanders and the local Tongan community, who have been deeply affected by this disaster, and I am saddened by the reported loss of life and the significant damage caused by this disaster.” Mrs John said the PCCFNQ was hoping to organise an event to raise funds for people in Tonga.
“PCCFNQ members, families and friends have been sharing #PrayForTonga all over social media in show of support, and we encourage the whole Cairns community to join us,” she said.
“At this point, we are on standby and waiting to hear how bad the destruction has been so we can organise a fundraiser with all our Polynesian communities in the Far North region.”
Mrs John said the PCCFNQ Facebook page posted new information as it became available.
Concerned residents can also email PCCFNQ at: pacificcommunitiescouncilfnq@gmail.com
