Margaret River’s St John Ambulance Service is calling for local groups to apply for the St John Heart Grant with the aim of increasing the number of automated external defibrillator (AED) units around the region.
“We’re offering over 1000 defibrillators through the program, located for public community use, for just $200,” explained community paramedic Dane Hendry.
“These normally retail in excess of $2000 each, and includes the defibrillator unit, a lock box and the necessary first aid training,” he said.
“We are actively encouraging the increase of the number of units in the Augusta Margaret River area, and the accessibility of those units in our community by relocating as many of the current units in our community to locations where they are accessible 24/7.
“We are also encouraging other agencies and locations to add one of these vital pieces of equipment to their premises.”
Demonstrating the units earlier this week, Mr Hendry said each lock box required a code, obtained by calling 000 and giving the operator the number of the defibrillator unit.
“They then give you the code to open the box, and once you open the unit itself you receive voice instructions from the defib unit all the way through, so anyone can use them immediately.”
There are currently 40 units linked to the St John Ambulance Community First Responder program in the Augusta Margaret River community, with 8 externally available at any time of the day or night.
“We have plans to increase not only the total number but the number always publicly available. Essentially we would like to see defib units considered the same way fire extinguishers are around town, they are everywhere and it becomes second nature to reach for one if needed.”
“AEDs are very easy to use, you simply attach the two pads on the chest of a person who is unresponsive and not breathing normally and follow the automatic voice prompts. You could really save a life just by reaching for an available AED.”
There are currently more than 2,800 AED units across Western Australia linked to the 000 Call Centre, making them available to the public in cases of sudden cardiac arrest. Of those units, 391 are currently accessible 24/7.
Not for profit sporting or community groups that are incorporated associations or have similar accountability structures defined by the WA Department of Commerce are welcomed to apply for the grant until February 28, 2019.
For more information and to apply for the St John Heart Grant visit stjohnheartgrant.com.au or contact the Augusta (9758 0417) or Margaret River (9757 3333) Sub Centres.
Nicky Lefebvre
I am a journalist, photographer and content creator based in the beautiful Margaret River wine region, covering all aspects of our community including local news, sport, entertainment and events, as well as providing a platform for our readers to share their voices direct from regional Australia.
I am a journalist, photographer and content creator based in the beautiful Margaret River wine region, covering all aspects of our community including local news, sport, entertainment and events, as well as providing a platform for our readers to share their voices direct from regional Australia.
