TEACHERS’ JOURNEY IN CAMBODIA

Instead of taking a break during the October school holidays, six caring teachers from ACT schools ventured to Cambodia to partake in humanitarian work.

Kate Page, Lee Amer and Melinda Hill, all from Weetangera Primary School were amongst the group who assisted with the building of houses in three villages outside of Phnom Penh for Tabitha Foundation Australia.

For this particular project, the foundation brings international volunteer building teams to Cambodia to supply the additional money to work under the direction of Khmer builders to complete the houses. The volunteers also bring additional money to supplement the initial housing investment from the local families.

Danielle Woods from Kaleen Primary School relished the opportunity to participate in this program.

“There was a day where sweat was pouring off us, our muscles were hurting and the sun was beaming down. It was by far the most rewarding day of the trip.

“Everyone in the village was there, watching and smiling. One of the fathers stepped forward – encouraged by the villagers – to pray that we all live a long and happy life.”

Tabitha Foundation’s Volunteer Public Officer, Dr Doug Quarry said, “The three houses built will accommodate 24 people, so important during the current wet season. The $2000 contribution to the family development program will allow another 80 families to work their own way out of poverty.

To the teachers and their schools, Dr Quarry said, “Tabitha Foundation Australia has been overwhelmed by the response from schools in Canberra to assist the poorest of the poor in Cambodia. You have changed many people’s lives forever. Thank you.”

The schools held various fundraising activities to assist with the cost of building materials.

The other teachers involved were Lee Amer and Melinda Hill and Kate Page from Weetangera Primary School, Sharron Beazley from Amaroo School and Lisette Robey from Kaleen High School.

The media are invited to take photos or interview participants from Kaleen and Weetangera Primary schools.

Statement Ends

For more information please contact Jordan Goulding on 6205 9494
Media and Communications
Phone: 02 6205 9160
Fax: 02 6205 3115
www.det.act.gov.au