A statement released today said Rotary Tasmania had made an initial donation of $5000 to kick off the appeal, which would use 100 per cent of funds raised to support Tasmanian communities.

District governor James Wilcox said he had already received several calls from across the country, asking how they could help.

``Over this record-breaking hot summer, the need for support of families and small businesses that are impacted by bushfires may be on a scale that is not yet able to be calculated, therefore we encourage all Tasmanians to get behind this bushfire appeal,'' Mr Wilcox said.

``We plan to work closely with the Rotary Clubs in the affected areas who have local knowledge of where the funds raised can be best used.''

The easiest, quickest way to donate will be through the Rotary Tasmania website at www.rotary9830.org.au. Those without internet access can send a cheque payable to the Rotary Tasmania Bushfire Appeal, 42 Auburn Road, Kingston, TAS, 7050.  

A receipt will be issued for these donations, however they are not eligible for tax deductibility.

For those wanting to make a tax deductible donation, Rotary Tasmania will establish a separate process through the Rotary Australia Benevolent Society and further details will be released on www.rotary9830.org.au shortly.