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The destruction of most of the Mount Stromlo Observatory and the damage suffered by dozens of students in the Canberra fires has resulted in many offers of support from around the world.
The Vice-Chancellor of the Australian National University, Professor Ian Chubb, said there had been an overwhelming response to the losses sustained as a result of the fires.
"Staff at the ANU have received dozens of calls from people in Canberra, across Australia and the international scientific community, offering support for those who have sustained personal losses and to help build on Mount Stromlo," Professor Chubb said.
"The range of people offering help to the ANU is humbling - ranging from international scientists offering technical assistance and support for our Astronomy and Astrophysics programs, to individuals donating money to redevelop Stromlo and also to help students who have suffered as a result of the fires."
To help deal with the number of calls of assistance, the University has established an ANU Student Bushfire Fund and an ANU Mount Stromlo Redevelopment Fund.
Anyone with enquiries about the two Funds should call (02) 61252229.
Professor Chubb reiterated the University's deep concerns and sympathy for those who had lost so much in the Canberra fires.
"Our thoughts are with those who have lost loved ones, those who have lost their homes and those who continue to face the stress of the ongoing fire crisis," Professor Chubb said.
"We are particularly concerned about the wellbeing of students and staff who have lost their homes in the fires and have established a special hotline for them."
Staff or students who have suffered losses as a result of the fires can call the ANU hotline on (02) 6125 1100.
Professor Chubb said there had been a number of enquiries about the future of Mount Stromlo.
"Mount Stromlo is an icon of Australian science and will remain an internationally important centre for Astronomy and Astrophysical research," Professor Chubb said.
"It is an icon for the international astronomy community, for the Canberra community and for generations of Australian school children, who have had their eyes opened to the mysteries of science in visits to the Observatory.
"In addition to being an icon, Mount Stromlo is also an important workplace to 60 ANU staff and 20 graduate students and the management and staff of established businesses. As a result of the astronomical observations and computer modelling conducted at our campuses at Mount Stromlo and Siding Spring, the ANU has achieved an international reputation for excellence in astronomy and astrophysics.
"At present, we need to devote our full attention to the needs of staff and helping where we can with the needs of the broader Canberra community. Once the human crisis is past, we will commence more detailed planning for building at Mount Stromlo."
Anyone wanting more information about the future of Mount Stromlo should call (02) 61252505.
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