Audi Bill Buckle Audi News

Jan 21, 2010

Crews in Australia’s largest and most established sailing regatta, Audi Victoria Week, are getting behind the Yellow Ribbon tribute to demonstrate their support for the victims of the State’s worst bushfires on Black Saturday last year.

The crews will wear the Yellow Ribbons in recognition of the first anniversary of the tragedy on 7 February, along with those affected by it, and the deaths of 173 people.

Olympians Alisa Camplin (Silver and Gold medals AERIAL SKIING), Darren Bundock (two-time Silver medalist MEN’S TORNADO CLASS) and Elise Rechichi (Gold medalist WOMEN’S 470 CLASS) also joined in down at Docklands today wearing their yellow ribbons.

Audi Australia will donate $1,000 to St. John Ambulance volunteers for their work in the tragedy and their ongoing support of sporting and community events throughout the State.

More than 500 St. John men and women from throughout Australia took part in the Black Saturday fire storm, supporting local residents, fire fighters and other volunteer service people in need of first aid in the bush fire ravaged areas. They treated more than 1300 people for injuries, ranging from cuts and bruises to broken arms, legs and burns.

“Volunteers play a very important part in Victoria’s wellbeing throughout the year, whether it is at community or major events like the Australian Open, Test cricket, the AFL Grand Final or bush fires,” said Vicki-Anne Spurrell, St John Ambulance General Manager, Volunteer Services.

“Our volunteers attend more than 6000 events each year and treat more than 17,000 people for a range of injuries and health problems. This month alone we will be at more than 300 sporting and community events throughout the State.

“Audi’s donation and the commitment of crews to wear Yellow Ribbons is a tremendous gesture.”

“When we heard about the Yellow Ribbon Tribute and the fact that it coincided with our support of Audi Victoria Week it was a natural step to encourage all those participating to show their support,” Audi Australia’s General Manager Corporate Communications, Anna Burgdorf said.