The Red Cross Victorian State Inquiry Centre will no longer log data manually. The computer equipment provided by IBM will enable volunteers to automate the process of gathering information on evacuees much faster and respond more quickly to enquiries by friends and family.

Over three days during the Christmas Canberra bushfires, the Red Cross dealt with 4698 registrations and nearly 10,000 inquiries manually.  This can result in large backlogs of registrations, adding to frustration of people seeking information on the safety of their loved ones.

Australian Red Cross, Victoria Chairman Richard Stone said: "The equipment provided by IBM will enable Australian Red Cross to enhance its service provided during times of emergency and disaster.  When the State Inquiry Centre is activated, being able to respond in a more timely manner will put many people's mind at rest quicker."

John Patterson, spokesperson for Red Cross Emergency Communication, said: "These new computers will be invaluable for allowing data entry containing information about displaced people at the location of the emergency.  Digitally processing the information allows for error free distribution of the data to Red Cross inquiry centres located through-out Australia." 

IBM State Manager for Victoria, Michael McMahon said: "IBM is delighted that we can assist the Red Cross in the vital work they do in our community. The technology has been donated through IBM's global initiative to donate refurbished, recycled equipment to not-for-profit organisations.

"We're especially proud of the role of six of our Ballarat employees, who are also Red Cross volunteers, played in initiating this idea. Cameron Tudball, Sharon Brand, Jessica de Courcy-Cann, Bradley Mumford, Emma Richards and Paul Murphy are great examples of IBM's commitment to help the communities within which we live and work."

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For further information, please contact:
Chris Linden
IBM
Mobile: 0412 353 523