Australian Defence Force Hands Over Temporary Health Centre in West Sumatra

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) today handed over a temporary health centre to the community of Sei Geringging, West Sumatra. The temporary health centre was constructed by the ADF, in cooperation with the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI), after the town’s health care centre was destroyed in the earthquake of 30 September.

The temporary facility will enable the local health centre staff to recommence treatment and care for the people of Sei Geringging until the original building is replaced.

The deployment also saw the Australian Defence Force and the TNI working together in earthquake relief and reconstruction efforts. Australian Joint Task Force Commander, Colonel Mark Brewer, said “to see the Australian and Indonesian soldiers working side by side, forging friendships in the aftermath of a natural disaster, will be an enduring feature of this mission.”

In the time the ADF has been in West Sumatra, it has conducted 63 rapid structural assessments of public buildings and produced over 1.3 million litres of drinking water for the community. Medical staff have treated 1,300 patients in Sei Geringging.

The ADF Joint Task Force ceased operations with the hand-over of the health centre and all members will depart Indonesia by 2 November.

While ADF operations in West Sumatra are now complete, Australia will continue to support the province through provision of up to A$10 million to help rebuild schools and public health facilities, working in partnership with the Indonesian government and local communities.

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Toby Lendon, Manager Public Affairs, 0811 187 3175