PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Contribution to the relief fund established to assist families of the victims of the bridge tragedy at the Maccabiah Games in Israel
Financial Implications ($m)

Explanation
In July 1997, at the fifteenth Maccabiah Games held in Israel, four Australians were killed and a number of others seriously injured when a bridge collapsed prior to the opening ceremony. The Maccabiah Australia Victims Support Fund was established by Maccabi Australia Inc to assist victims and their families. The Government agreed to contribute $5,000 to this support fund. The contribution was made in December 1997.
PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Contribution to the relief fund established to assist families of the fire fighting victims in the Southern Highlands 
Financial Implications ($m)

Explanation
In early January 1998, in fighting a major bush fire in the Southern Highlands, one fire fighter died and a number of others were seriously injured. The Wingecarribee Shire Council has established the 1998 Wingello Fire Victims Appeal to assist the families of fire fighting victims. The Government agreed to contribute $10,000 to this relief fund. The contribution was made in February 1998.
PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Contribution to the relief fund established to provide assistance to those affected by floods in North Queensland 
Financial Implications ($m)

Explanation
In early January 1998, heavy floods caused extensive damage in North Queensland, particularly in Townsville and surrounding areas. The Government agreed to contribute $100,000 to the North Queensland Floods Relief Appeal established to provide assistance to those affected by floods. The contribution was made in February 1998.
PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Donation to Weary Dunlop-Boonpong Exchange Fellowship administered by Royal College of Surgeons of Thailand and Royal Australasian College of Surgeons
Financial Implications ($m)

Explanation
The Weary Dunlop-Boonpong Exchange Fellowship promotes medical training for young Thai surgeons in Australia in specialist fields.  The Fellowship is well regarded and its work is appreciated both in Australia and in Thailand.
The Government agreed to contribute $50,000 in 1997-98 to the Fellowship for the good work done by the Fellowship and as a testimony to the work of both Dunlop and Boonpong in promoting harmony and understanding between Australia and Thailand.