Water East Timor Update

 Chairman Mark Taylor introduced Miles Coverdale, Geoff Spencer & Andy Graham, noting that Miles is Chairman of WET, Geoff took over as Treasurer from Mark, and Andy is a “double” Past President of RCWE and a Life Member of WET.

 

Miles expressed the thanks of WET for the support provided by RCWE since its beginning in 2012, and noted that without that support some 15 projects would not have been done and thousands of Timor Leste people would not enjoy clean water and hygiene improvements. These improvements have led to significant reductions in disease and great improvements in education, especially for girls who do not have to spend time every day carrying water. He noted the pivotal role played by Dr Noel & Mrs Yve Bayley, both of who have PHFRs from this club in recognition of their work. He also paid tribute to Andy who has been to Timor Leste 18 times and has used his practical and professional experience to drive the projects.

 

Miles also emphasised that a key element of it all has been to train the locals so that they can undertake necessary maintenance and also, now, implement new projects. Eddie de Pina, PHFR, is the leader of the team.

 

Geoff spoke about the 2024 Project of WET which is to provide a water supply to Hatu-Builico Senior Secondary School at a cost of A$24,000-A$26,000. The water will be sourced from a perennial spring, and using various sizes of poly-pipe, will be brought to two 5,200 litre supply tanks and three 3,200 litre holding tanks. 15-20 standing tap points will be located around the school precinct. The school precinct has 148 students and includes boarding houses for staff and students. It is located 2400 metres above sea level, higher than Mount Kosciuszko (2228 metres), the highest point in Australia. Several thousand local citizens will also benefit from the project.