By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
FIRE has forged an unlikely bond between refugee students and Corio Fire Station officers.
Fire ripped through a refugee camp on the Thai-Burmese border in March, killing 37 and leaving 2300 homeless.
Some of the dead were friends or relatives of Karen and Karenni students at North Geelong Secondary School.
Now the CFA firemen are pitching in to help the students raise funds to help rebuild the camp,
Corio Leading Firefighter Gavin Fitzgerald said members learned of the tragedy while running fire education sessions at the school.
Many of the students were “directly affected”, he said.
“The students are very passionate and talented soccer players, so a tournament was a fitting way to raise money for their friends and relatives.
“We’re holding a charity soccer tournament and inviting the community to participate for an entrance fee to raise funds. All money raised will go toward building materials for the reconstruction of the camp – and the rebuilding of lives.”
A Lara Rotary Club donation of $2000 and a further $1200 from Springvale Fire Station had boosted the cause.
“That’s enough to build 10 new houses,” Mr Fitzgerald said.
School coordinator Lawrence Jordan said the commmunity support had left the students feeling empowered.
“It’s helped their confidence enormously because they have experienced a wide range of emotions.
“They’re proud of their achievements in Australia but still want to help those they left behind.”
Norlane’s Leisuretime Centre will host the futsal tournament from 4pm to 7.30pm Friday, with more information available by phoning Paul Smith on 0428 525 550.
