Tasmania’s political leaders have joined members of the Nepali community for a candlelight vigil on the lawns of Parliament House tonight to honour victims of devastating floods in Nepal.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff, opposition leader Josh Willie and Greens leader Rosalie Woodruff stood alongside community members at the evening ceremony, which included a traditional ritual led by a Nepalese community member.
The vigil was organised by the Nepali community of Tasmania and supporting organisations.
Rockliff told those gathered that the Tasmanian Parliament had “spoken with one voice” over the past two days in offering condolences.
“Homes and whole communities swept away, families displaced and search and rescue workers carrying out their duties under extraordinary circumstances,” he said.
“Tasmania is enriched by you, our Nepalese community.”
Willie said his heart broke for those affected.
“It’s been utter devastation, the floods, the mudslides, the impact to the community,” he said.
“We want you to know that the Parliament is one with you and our thoughts will remain with you and your families back home.”
Woodruff spoke about the scale of destruction across multiple provinces and linked the disaster to the effects of climate change on high-altitude Himalayan communities.
“With whole villages and schools and health facilities, power infrastructure lost, the rebuilding of Nepal will take billions of dollars and many years,” she said.
She urged Tasmanians to donate generously to the emergency relief appeal.
An organiser, speaking on behalf of the Nepali community, thanked political leaders for attending on a busy parliamentary sitting day.
“We may be 1,000 kilometers away in Tasmania, but our hearts are in Nepal,” he said.
All donations made at the vigil would go directly to the Nepal Prime Minister Fund Relief Fund to support rebuilding efforts.
“No contribution is too small,” he said.
