Indian student body seeks help for flood-hit Queensland, Australia

Mangalore Today News Network

Melbourne, Jan 12, (PTI): A body representing Indian students in Australia has asked Indians across the country to rally support for the flood-hit people of Queensland province, including thousands of people from the community.

A large number of Indians are believed to have been affected by the Queensland flooding. It is believed that over 10,000 students are currently enrolled in Central Queensland University (CQU).

Federation of Indian Students of Australia (FISA) spokesperson Gautam Gupta, in a statement said, "We know that all Indians in Australia and around the world are concerned with the tragedy in Queensland caused by recent flooding".

Gupta said though the full extent of the damage is yet to be known, the damage till date has been unprecedented. "It is time that once again we look into our hearts and pockets and help rebuild an even stronger Queensland," he said, appealing to people to help generously.

He expressed concern over the current flood crisis which he said was prompting many families in India to call and inquire about their loved ones studying in the state universities and educational institutions.

"We are concerned that amongst the thousands of victims of this tragedy, there are a number of Indian students. These students will be doing very tough and our hearts go out to them and their loved ones," he said.

He said the network of the organisation in Brisbane has been asked to be updated on the situation and called on the students to keep approach the body if in need of assistance.

"However we would encourage everyone to contact established support services before," he said.