By CAM LUCADOU-WELLS
A NIGHT of dance, music and food – Fijian style – is to be held in Dandenong to raise funds for Cyclone Winston victims.
One of the organisers, Akeneta Oliver, is preparing a Fijian earth-oven to cook traditional meals for the fundraiser at Dandenong Uniting Church on 16 April.
She is part of the 30-strong Fijian congregation at the church, many who know family and friends killed by the category-five cyclone in February.
“It’s quite personal for us. They have lost a lot of homes and lives, and still need food and shelter.”
Church minister John Queripel said it was hoped to raise more than $1000 relief funds at the concert, dinner and silent auction.
“This is a great way for the wider community to express their support for people often with nothing left.”
An estimated 32,000 homes were damaged or destroyed and 350,000 people were affected when the cyclone struck Fiji on 20 February.
It’s been described as the island nation’s worst-recorded cyclone, killing more than 40 people.
The event is at the church at 32 Scott Street on 16 April, 7pm. Entry $20 (including meal), free for children under 12.
Details from Mary Ann Spencer on 0477 087 826 or at dandenonguca@gmail.com.
