Rex has announced it will provide emergency assistance to flood-ravaged Port Macquarie just days ahead of the airline's launch of flights to the regional city.
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Rex has advised Port Macquarie-Hastings mayor, Peta Pinson, that it will allocate a budget of $500,000 for council to use at its discretion for the purchase of flights on Rex to benefit local residents affected by the deluge. The funding can also be used to benefit organisations involved in relief and recovery efforts.
"We have all been moved by the widespread devastation we have seen over the weekend and know that there will be difficult days ahead for the local community," Rex's deputy chairman, the Hon John Sharp AM, said.
"Rex's heart is in the country and we have always responded whenever widespread natural disasters have hit regional/rural communities on our network.
"Rex set aside $1.5 million in 2018/19 to a dedicated 'Rex Relief Fund' in response to the prolonged and devastating impact of the worst drought to hit Australia in 50 years.
"This fund aimed to extend aid to victims in regional and rural Australia of natural calamities like drought, floods and fires. Today again, we feel compelled to dig deep into our reserves.
"The Federal Government has swiftly stepped in to save all regional airlines from near certain bankruptcy when COVID hit one year ago and we believe that it is only right that Rex does its level best to now assist those in dire need."
Rex is due to begin flying between Sydney and Port Macquarie from March 28.
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