Australia Helping PNG Following the Ferry Disaster
Kevin Rudd
posted Friday, 3 February 2012
The Australia Government has extended full assistance to Papua New Guinea following the sinking yesterday of the MV Rabaul Queen.
Over 240 people have now been rescued, but grave concerns are still held for many more, particularly with challenging weather conditions and the ship being lost in very deep water.
Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd said Australia stands side-by-side with Papua New Guinea at this difficult time.
“The High Commission in Port Moresby has arranged for emergency supplies in Lae to be available for survivors,” said Mr Rudd.
“Australia is working closely with local organisations, including the Lae ANGAU Memorial Hospital, PNG National Disaster Committee, Salvation Army and PNG Red Cross.”
Three Australian Government aircraft remain active in the search and rescue operational area - the Cairns and Darwin Dornier drop-capable rescue aircraft, and an RAAF PC3 Orion – and two privately chartered aircraft.
Infrastructure And Transport Minister, Anthony Albanese, said AMSA has also arranged ships in the area to continue with search and rescue efforts.
“Four AMSA personnel are in Lae to assist local authorities coordinating the search, and we stand ready to do more,” said Mr Albanese.
The three Australian Defence Force personnel based in Lae are also assisting. An ADF member based at the High Commission in Port Moresby has been seconded to the Papua New Guinea Maritime Rescue Centre as a liaison officer to assist AMSA’s coordination with its PNG counterpart.