Generous community donation to Hornsby Rural Brigade

“This is an extraordinarily generous donation,” Hornsby Shire Mayor Philip Ruddock said.

“It’s what we’ve come to expect from our friends in the Chinese community and will be put to great effect to help ensure the safety of Hornsby Shire.”

The donation is part of the funds raised by the Chinese community at an event held on Friday 29 November.

Other funds have been donated to the Koala Hospital at Port Macquarie and Blaze Aid, which will use the funds to rebuild farms after the bush fires. In all, $390,000 was raised.

Australia China Economics, Trade and Culture Association (ACETCA) Executive Chairman Dr Ven Tan, who led the organising committee, said it’s been a great honour to represent the Chinese community on this important initiative.

“The Hornsby Rural Fire Brigade deserves the Chinese community’s support and it’s very good that the Australian Chinese community have been so generous,” Dr Tan said.

“It’s important that Australians know that Australian Chinese people are so generous in helping other Australians when the going gets tough. It makes me proud to be an Australian Chinese.

“These bush fires are terrible. It’s hard to imagine that almost 700 homes have been destroyed before the worst part of the bush fire season has even started. It’s an overwhelming tragedy for so many families.”

Hornsby Rural Fire Brigade has also welcomed the donation and the generosity it embodies.

“The Hornsby Rural Fire Brigade is overwhelmed by the generous support of the Australian Chinese community,” Brigade Captain Theo Klich said.

“This money will go directly to supporting the operations of the brigade by providing better equipment that the members can use in their day-to-day duties.”

ACETCA is a non-political organisation promoting trade and culture between Australia and China. It’s members regularly donate to support the community.