By Ian Neubauer
Prominent members of the liquor and gaming industries are digging deep to support victims of Victoria’s bushfires, with Tabcorp leading the charge with a $2 million pledge.
“As a major Victorian company operating throughout the state we want to make a significant contribution to help out fellow Victorians affected by this catastrophe,” said Tabcorp CEO Elemer Funke Kupper.
“At times like this it is important that companies show leadership in the community and support those people who need our help. We hope that our donation will go some way to assisting the many victims of these devastating bushfires.”
Other significant donors include Coles’ parent company Wesfarmers, which has pledged to give $500,000, Foster’s Group, which will give $750,000 and ClubsNSW. The umbrella organisation today (Feb 9) launched an appeal among its members and kickstarted the fund with $50,000.
“My phone hasn’t stopped all day [with enquiries] from clubs asking how they can help,” said ClubsNSW CEO David Costello. “I’m sure every Australian is feeling the same way.”
Bushfires laid havoc across rural Victoria on the weekend, destroying hundreds of homes and taking 66 lives.
The 2009 Victorian Bushfire Appeal fund is being administrated by the Red Cross of Australia. For more information or to pledge a donation, click here.