Donated playground equipment all the way from Mount Gambier is bringing smiles to the faces of children in Timor Leste.

Children at Ryder-Cheshire’s facility Klibur Domin at Tibar, near Dili, are taking full advantage of the set of playground equipment donated by the Mount Gambier City Council.

The project was initiated by Lakes Rotary Club, which assisted deconstruction and then funded freight from Melbourne to Tibar.

Project spokesman John Kirby said Klibur Domin’s objectives were the identification and treatment of Tuberculosis throughout central and western Timor Leste and provide community-based disability rehabilitation services.

“Transport and respite care for patients going to and from the main Dili hospital is also a major focus. However, as with many third world countries, demand continues to outstrip Klibur Domin’s capacity to help all those in need,” Mr Kirby said.

Mr Kirby said Klibur Domin and the Tibar community were still struggling to recover from last year’s catastrophic cyclone and resultant floods.

“As international travel restrictions ease, it is expected volunteers will soon be able to return and assist,” he said.

“Skills such as mechanics, plumbers, electricians and info technology, as well as medical, dental and health services were much in need. ESL teachers would also be welcome.

“There is also a critical need for longer term volunteer professionals in the fields of administration and health services, not only to assist, but also to educate local staff.”

Contact Mr Kirby at jktimor17@hotmail.com or 0438 232744 for more information on volunteering.