Marist projects provide refuge in after-math of Cyclone Winston

Fijians are cleaning-up after yesterday’s (21 February 2016) devastating category five super-storm, Cyclone Winston, which is reported as being the most powerful cyclone in the island nation’s history.

While Suva was not directly hit by the storm, flooding is widespread and there is significant damage to houses and infrastructure.

Locals from the low-lying settlement of Nanuku, are taking refuge in make-shift evacuation centres at the Marist Champagnat Institute and St Marcellin Primary School in the capital, Suva.

Marist Brothers in Suva, Brother Luke Fong, Brother Kees van der Weert, and District of the Pacific Leader Brother David McDonald report that they are all fine, but it may take time for services to be fully restored.

They say there has been no damage to their houses at Vatuwaqa, Flagstaff and Lomeri, but they are cut off from power, water, and mobile phone reception.

Although there is only minor damage to the Marist vocational centre and school, they will be closed for at least one week, which will enable the facilities to be used as temporary accommodation.

To support the Marists in Fiji to help those in need, following Cyclone Winston, email us at: msol@marists.org.au or connect with us via our 'contact us' page

For further information:
Brother Allen Sherry, Executive Director
Australian Marist Solidarity
Ph. (07) 3354 0600
Email: al.sherry@marists.org.au