Mayor Councillor Peter Cox says great progress is being made in the Maubisse region of East Timor but more work needs to be done to improve health, education and water quality.
Cr Cox was joined by other Bendigo-Maubisse Friendship Committee members Heather Ridge and John Jones and said the group was able to hear first-hand from the local community about their priorities.
“We met with 33 community members, including five tribal Chiefs, and they all placed a very strong emphasis on the need to make improvements in the areas of education, health and water quality.
“While much great work has been completed with significant support from the Committee and the broader Bendigo community, there’s plenty more to be done if this region is to reach its full potential.
“The talks were very productive and will assist the Committee in prioritising the types of assistance Bendigo will provide in the coming years.”
Recent projects supported by the Committee include many school refurbishments, a ‘Meals on Heels’ project and rebuilding the local radio station.
An education scholarship is also in place.
“The visit provided an opportunity for Committee members to visit many of these projects to witness how they are benefiting the Maubisse community.
“I was blown away by the rugged beauty of this region and would encourage others to visit there, especially during the wet season when it is lush with corn, fruit and flowers everywhere.”
The Mayor paid his own transport and accommodation costs.
