Fuzzy angels need a lift

By Shaun Inguanzo
DANDENONG RSL is leading a statewide charge to provide financial aid to the “Fuzzy Wuzzy Angel” people whose lives have been devastated by severe cyclones in Papua New Guinea.
The Fuzzy Wuzzies, native to areas surrounding the infamous Kokoda Track, cemented a place in Australian folklore during World War II when they played a crucial role in helping Australian troops conquer the treacherous track under fire from Japanese forces.
Dandenong Diggers have pitched in $1000 to help their old friends, and the RSL sub-branch is hoping to inspire other branches to contribute and help the Fuzzy Wuzzies in the Oro province rebuild their lives.
Cyclone Guba hit the Oro province in November last year and killed almost 250 people.
It wiped out 20 main bridges and roads leaving many in short supply of food and other aid.
Dandenong RSL president Don Shields is writing a letter that will be distributed to Victorian RSL sub-branches encouraging them to donate and help the Fuzzy Wuzzies rebuild.
The Kokoda Track Foundation, with the help so far of the RSL of New South Wales, has raised more than $137,000 with that amount expected to increase as more people become aware of the devastation.
Dandenong RSL president Don Shields, 84, who served in Papua new Guinea during World War II, said Australia – not just the Diggers who fought there – was indebted to the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels, and owed them the support.
“I have just got to stress that these are the people who won the battle for us,” Mr Shields said.
“There were that few of us (Australians) in 1942 in New Guinea that if they hadn’t helped us by carrying supplies and ammunition, and bringing wounded out, then we would have lost New Guinea and would have lost Australia.
“Now a cyclone has taken out their villages and they are in dire straits.”
Centrelink multicultural service officer Rick Comfort, who works in Dandenong, was walking the Kokoda Track when the cyclones hit the region.
Mr Comfort said the Kokoda Track Authority was forced to close the track a month earlier than usual and that he couldn’t continue his trek as a result.
“Because of the rain it was very dangerous,” Mr Comfort said.
“There were two large rivers that once you crossed between them there would be no way out.
“They were at heights not even the locals had seen.”
Mr Comfort urged people to donate to the Fuzzy Wuzzy cause.
“For those who work on the track it’s their only source of income, and for many the track is a means of transport.
“Because of the cyclone though, it has made it difficult for isolated communities.”
To donate call the Dandenong RSL on 9792 1535.