Vanuatu Clean-Up: Rivergate Aids Residents
In the wake of Tropical Cyclone Pam, which hit landfall on March 13, 2015, latest reports indicate that more than 65,000 people are now homeless and over 110,000 are left without safe drinking water in Vanuatu.
Australia's Rivergate Marina and Shipyard, working in conjunction with YachtAid Global, is doing what they can to provide relief to the disaster affected country. YachtAid representatives and activist are on the ground in Vanuatu and report that “Rivergate’s support comes a critical time” for the community.
The donation made by Rivergate has made a substantial impact already. Providing, so far, 2,300 ten litre water containers in addition to boxes of 500ml water bottles aiming to assist with the urgent need for clean, safe, drinking water, as well as empty pallets, 20 cargo bags for use with heli-ops and other equipment including large quantities of clothing, hats, a chainsaw and jet-fuel for choppers.
Rivergate Marina and Shipyard’s General Manager, Andrew Cannon said: “We’re doing what we can to help the people of Vanuatu who were all affected by this catastrophic and heartbreaking event and we’re calling on others to do what they can”.
It was organized for chase-boat “UMBRA”, with helicopter support, to deliver the cargo into Port Vila on Thursday last week. UMBRA was undergoing works in Auckland, New Zealand when the cyclone hit; changing course to immediate route to Port Vila where Rivergate’s emergency supplies
were distributed to those in need, reaching islands where there has been no prior contact or aid provided.
“I’m really proud of the Rivergate team and what Yacht Aid Global has achieved”, Cannon stated, “It’s impressive to see what the Superyacht industry is capable of in times like this”. But, Rivergate importantly note that the need for assistance in Vanuatu is far from over, with many suggesting the relief effort will need to be ongoing for months to come, to help the community get back on its feet. A number of private companies and vessels have signed up to assist with the ongoing efforts.
