HUNTER STUDENTS LEND A HAND

IN FLOOD-AFFECTED QLD

Bob Baldwin, Shadow Minister for Regional Development and Tourism and Member for Paterson has farewelled 40 Hunter Valley students who will fly to Queensland this morning to help with the flood clean up and rebuilding.

The students will fly return from Newcastle free of charge, thanks to a kind donation from Virgin Blue.

“When the students contacted me and said they wanted to help out in Queensland, I was very moved and impressed,” said Mr Baldwin.

“So I was delighted to call the team at Virgin Blue on the students’ behalf and ask for sponsorship, which Virgin Blue has so kindly provided.”

“I recently toured QLD in my capacity as Shadow Minister and I have seen first hand the devastation. However, I have also seen that people are getting on with the job and working harder than ever,” said Mr Baldwin.

The students, from Hunter Valley Grammar School, are aged between 12 and 16 years. They were chosen from a ballot of more than 100 students who put their hands up to volunteer their time.

“The students will work in four teams of 10 in Massie, 20 minutes out of Warwick, clearing flood debris and re-establishing fencing,” said Mr Baldwin.

“The Community Service Camp will run for three days during which time the students will contribute to the flood rebuilding. They will also learn important teamwork and land skills.

“I would sincerely like to thank Virgin Blue, Landcare, Blaze Aid and Volunteering QLD, and of course, the students.

“It’s also important to remember that the recovery effort in QLD will continue for some time and donations are always welcome.”