Lifesaving defibrillators installed

Published on 02 July 2021

Gannawarra Shire communities now have access to lifesaving defibrillators thanks to Gannawarra Shire Council and the Federal Government’s Drought Communities Programme – Extension.

Council recently used funds from its $2 million allocation from the Federal Government-supported program to install defibrillators at the Dingwall, Koroop, Murrabit and Myall halls. This program has also supported the installation of defibrillators at Kerang’s Sir John Gorton Library, the Leitchville Rural Transaction Centre, Leitchville Swimming Pool and Quambatook Swimming Pool.

“Defibrillators can make a difference in saving someone’s life when they are experiencing cardiac arrest,” Council’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Phil Higgins said.

“The chance of surviving a cardiac arrest outside of a hospital is one in 10, and the installation of these units will increase the chances for residents and visitors to these four community halls.”

The units are installed on the exterior of each hall, and are registered with Ambulance Victoria, enabling residents to access them when needed.

“The Murrabit Hall is the central location of the town, and while we have defibrillators at the Murrabit Recreation Reserve, the Murrabit Fire Brigade and inside the hall itself, to have a unit that is readily and easily accessible to everyone is a real asset with regards to providing a safe space for the many people, locals and visitors, who use the hall and its surrounds,” Murrabit Hall Committee President, Neil Hopkins said. 

“Many community groups located in the Gannawarra already have a defibrillator, but registering your equipment with Ambulance Victoria means those who have the experience to respond before paramedics arrive will be able to access your defibrillator when needed,” Mr Higgins said.

The installation of the defibrillators is one of the more than 60 initiatives supported by the Drought Communities Programme – Extension, ranging from important health programs such as the installation of defibrillators at community facilities to improvements to local halls and amenities.

Details and updates on all projects supported by funding from the Federal Government’s Drought Communities Programme – Extension is available online at www.gsc.vic.gov.au/droughtfunding

ABOVE: Murrabit Hall Committee President, Neil Hopkins with the facility's new defibrillator.