THE seaside community of Port MacDonnell has been given added peace of mind through the installation of a publicly accessible defibrillator.
The potentially life-saving medical equipment was installed at the Port MacDonnell Men’s Shed last week, mounted to the exterior where it can be accessed during an emergency situation.
Purchased from St Johns Ambulance, the equipment was funded through donations from the Port MacDonnell Lions Club and the Mount Gambier & District Community Bendigo Bank.
Men’s shed vice-president Reg Gurney said the organisation had wanted to purchase the equipment for a long time.
“All 15 to 20 members here are over 65 years of age with quite a few in their 70’s and 80’s,” Mr Gurney said.
“We are elderly so it makes sense to have one because sooner or later somebody will need it.
“Every minute counts, especially if you have to travel to the other side of town in those seconds.”
Organisation member David Soderblom said around three to four members had experienced heart attacks in the past.
“I think we now feel more confident when here on Tuesday and Thursday,” Mr Soderblom said.
“We also had representatives from SA Ambulance Services travel down to show us how to use the equipment last week.
“We were presented through a detailed workshop with ambulance officer Joe Renko and three volunteers and now know how to use it if we ever had to.”
Bendigo Bank branch manager Tracy Koop said the funding used to purchase the equipment was just one example of the branch giving back to the district community.
“Bendigo Bank gives approximately 80pc of its profits back to the community usually through two rounds of grants per year,” Ms Koop said.
“The men’s shed missed the first round of grants but went for the equipment during the second round.
“As it was a special circumstance and we saw it as a necessity, we took it to a meeting and were able to get an additional grant.”
Ms Koop said the branch was happy to help the community and give back to the South East.
“Although, we do hope the equipment never has to be used,” Ms Koop said.
“I personally was scared when I first saw one but the equipment talks the user through each step and makes the process as simple as possible.
“We are proud to be a part of such a community-orientated activity.”
The defibrillator is one of many jotted across Port MacDonnell with others also located at the district’s bowling club, football club, Victoria Hotel and the community complex and information centre.
The emergency service app – GoodSAM – also allows the public to locate defibrillators in areas across the nation.
