More than a thousand people are feared dead after Japan's earthquake and tsunami

In the latest catastrophic natural disaster, Japan has been smashed by an earthquake and a tsunami. Japan’s Prime Minister, Naoto Kan, has described the catastrophe as an “unprecedented national disaster“.

This morning, the Vietnam Swans wrote to the Tokyo Goannas Australian Football Club to express our “sense of disbelief at the tsunami and earthquake that struck Japan on Friday.

“We trust that all those associated with the Tokyo Goannas are safe and well.

“It’s devastating news.”

The Tokyo Goanna’s President Andrew Peyton replied:

“Thank you so much for the Vietnam Swans’ kind thoughts and concern. As far as we know, all members, players, supporters, sponsors and families of the Goannas are okay.

“It has been such a harrowing experience for all. Many stranded in town on Friday night due to the rail shutdown and no taxis to get home. Even if you could manage a taxi, the roads were that congested, a 20km fare would have run $500+.

“It is going to be a huge recovery effort but not impossible. Aussies abroad are resilient in general and that coupled with the Goanna spirit will see us all through.”

Former President Andrew Ogilvy added:

The Tokyo Goannas will organise a fundraiser

“Please spare a thought for those north of us. The death toll I believe will be in the 1000s.”

The Tokyo Goannas will be organising a fundraiser shortly. The Vietnam Swans will forward details to anybody wishing to donate directly to that particular fund.