Hundreds of mourners gathered in Melbourne’s Federation Square for a candlelight vigil honouring those killed or still missing after the devastating flash flood on the Nepal-Tibet border.
The gathering took place five days after the disaster struck the remote Himalayan region, where floodwaters and landslides swept through communities, roads and border facilities.
Families, members of Australia’s Nepali community and supporters observed a minute’s silence before placing candles across the city landmark in memory of the victims and in solidarity with those awaiting news of loved ones.
Victorian Premier Ben Carroll attended the vigil and announced a $100,000 state government contribution towards the search effort in Nepal.
“All of Victoria stands behind you, and every candle in Federation Square tonight is lit up for you,” Mr Carroll told the crowd.
The Australian Government said on Sunday that 42 Australians remained unaccounted for. A 12-person response team, including crisis response specialists, consular officers and Australian Federal Police personnel, had been deployed to Kathmandu.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the remoteness of the affected region, damaged infrastructure and the scale of the destruction were creating significant challenges for rescue and recovery operations.
Australia has committed $8 million in humanitarian assistance, including hygiene kits and solar lighting supplies requested by the Nepalese Government. The first supplies are due to be transported from Queensland by the Royal Australian Air Force.
