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Disaster

Australian support continues to Western and Choiseul Provinces

By Fredrick Kusu

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An RSIPF vehicle is packed with Australian aid during the Australian Defence Force support to Solomon Islands’ Government in the wake of Severe Tropical Cyclone Maila

Australian Defence Force (ADF) aircraft and personnel are continuing to work with Solomon Islands’ National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) and communities to deliver humanitarian assistance in the wake of Severe Tropical Cyclone Maila. 

An RSIPF vehicle distributes Australian humanitarian assistance on Taro Island
An RSIPF vehicle distributes Australian humanitarian assistance on Taro Island

A Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) C-27J Spartan and C-17 Globemaster are operating between Australia, Honiara, and airfields in Western and Choiseul provinces, bringing emergency supplies such as shelters and hygiene kits from Australia’s humanitarian warehouse in Brisbane. 

The aircraft are also transporting emergency food and medical stores supplied by Solomon Islands-based NGOs.

The airdrops are being delivered in close coordination with NDMO and the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF), with RSIPF vehicles being used for loading and unloading and end-point distribution of supplies.

Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Jeff Roach, said the cooperation between Australian and Solomon Islands authorities was highly effective in getting supplies delivered to affected communities. 

“Natural disasters like Severe Tropical Cyclone Maila can be devastating in their impact – but they’re also when we see the human spirit of generosity and cooperation shine most brightly,” High Commissioner Roach said. 

Australian Defence Force (ADF) members load Australian aid onto a Royal Australian Air Force C-17 Globemaster III in Brisbane
Australian Defence Force (ADF) members load Australian aid onto a Royal Australian Air Force C-17 Globemaster III in Brisbane

“With each flight to Munda or Taro, we see the dedication and professionalism of Solomon Islanders and Australians working together for the benefit of Solomon Islanders – a real testament to our partnership.”

Australian assistance is set to continue as the country disburses the SBD8.6 million in humanitarian assistance it announced on 12 April.

[end]

AHC statement

TopicsDisasterSI-Australia Relations
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