Govt to donate $25,000 to cyclone appeal

18/4/96

Premier Richard Court says the State Government will contribute $25,000 to the Lord Mayor's Appeal convened for the families affected by Cyclone Olivia.

Mr Court said the contribution, on behalf of the people of Western Australia, recognised the destruction caused by the cyclone after it crossed the Pilbara coast on April 10.

"Perth Lord Mayor Peter Natrass convened the appeal after being advised on the extent of damage by Emergency Services Minister Bob Wiese, who visited the area and consulted the State Emergency Service," Mr Court said.

"It has been reported that Olivia, with wind gusts in excess of 250 kmh, was the second strongest cyclone recorded in Australia.

"The damage caused was extensive.

"However, it could have been much worse and that is something we should be thankful for."

Mr Court said he was confident that the Lord Mayor's Appeal would be well supported.