Prince William concludes visit to flood-hit Australia
Britain's Prince William on Monday concluded his visit to flood hit parts of Victoria in what many seen by many as a public relations success for the second-in-line to the British throne. His tour was capped by an announcement by the state's government of additional financial assistance to those worst affected by the flooding in mid-January when the Loddon River broke its banks and dumped more water into communities.
Ironically, the prince is expected to get a taste of severe weather as meteorologists predicted stormy weather in western and central Victoria, including areas he would visit.
The Bureau of Meteorology on Monday warned of storms and heavy rain, and released a flood watch for the Loddon River.
William is scheduled to be briefed on the weather update and the conditions on the areas he will be visiting by local emergency services personnel in Kerang. He will also attend a traditional Australian barbecue as part of his itinerary.
Local shire mayor Max Fehring said the visit of William, who is scheduled to marry his fiancee Kate Middleton at Westminster Abbey on April 29, would provide the prince a clearer picture and understanding of the difficulties the Victorians are facing.
"I'm going to do my utmost to make sure that he meets with ordinary men and women who have a great story to tell about how they've conquered this whole event," Fehring told reporters.
Victoria state Premier Ted Baillieu has announced an 12 million dollar (11.9 million US) package for flood victims ahead of William's visit.
"We are standing by these communities and families so they get the help they need to get back on their feet," state Premier said.