oec.org.au

As news of the unprecedented devastation caused by the bushfires in Victoria continues to shock all Australians, rural communities are showing their support of the victims in a number of practical ways.

Western NSW-based not-for-profit organisation, Orana Education & Training Co-operative Ltd (OEC) today announced a $5,000 donation to the Red Cross Bushfire Appeal, and has established a payroll deduction facility for staff to make additional personal donations to the Appeal. To date, staff have already donated $1500 towards the cause which is a tremendous response.

According to Ian Stanford, OEC’s Chief Executive Officer, the tragic events in Victoria have struck a real chord with OEC staff members, many of whom have close associations with remote rural communities. “In our lines of business, operating a Job Network Agency, OEC Employment and Carlton House Function Centre, we often work with individuals from small rural settlements and have first-hand knowledge of the disastrous impact of fire, drought and flood. It was without hesitation that we supported the recommendation from our staff to do what we could to lend a helping hand.”

“Even though many people in our region are trying to cope with financial pressures, we’ve always had a strong tradition of looking after those who are worse off. I encourage other local businesses to join with OEC to do what they can support what will need to be a huge relief effort,” said Mr Stanford.