Devasting Effects:-

THE DEVASTATING effects of the Gujarat earthquake are well known but one woman feels the Northern Beaches community could be doing more to help the area get back on its feet Carole Douglas, writer, artist and educator, was about to visit Bhuj, the capital of Kutch, as part of a book she was writing on the people, the culture and their relationship with the fragile environment, when the earthquake happened. She has now turned her energies to encouraging support for the Kutch community, in the long-term, and called a public meeting in Manly Council Chambers on Wednesday March 14. Guest speakers included President of the Gujarat Society, Mr. Hari Gohil ,and Mayur, a Sydney based student returned from his devastated family town ofAnjar and Dr Shash Mehta, Bhuj born presenter of SBS Gujarat Radio program also recently returned from one month in Gujarat. Out of the public meeting a working party was formed , members of which will liaise closely with the Centre for Environ mental Education in Gujarat who are deeply involved in earthquake relief ."There is no obligation to become involved , but if you can offer support, it will be gratefully received," said Manly Mayor, Jean Hay, who is supporting the project.