Local Rotarians assisting people of Ukraine
By creating connections between various groups and individuals, Wendouree Breakfast Rotarian David Sanders has facilitated the delivery of medical equipment to Ukraine. David had previously met Senator Rowan Ramsay last year, and when the war broke out and Australia was going to send Bushmasters to help Ukraine, David spoke to Jeremy McKnight (from Shannon's Bridge) about sending medical equipment, he was happy to help. He then contacted The Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations (AFUO) and asked what they needed, spoke to Rowan’s PA and asked if Rotary could send medical support with the Airlift. After some back and forth between Rowan and Marise Payne they were able to send some 20 pallets of wound dressing, gravity IVs etc. which was obtained from DIK in Melbourne and SA and surplus from hospitals. Presently, Teresa Lachowicz, the AFUO State Coordinator for Victoria is managing and coordinating requirements for Ukraine with great support from DIK’s around Australia and networks that they have helped link with Teresa. So far they have sent 67 Pallets with another 60 pallets waiting on space on the planes carrying Australian government aid.
Well done David for your quick thinking and use of networks - definitely Rotary in Action!