Five sporting clubs received new defibrillators and free training from the Parkes Shire Council as part of the NSW Office of Sport Local Sports Defibrillator Grant Program. The program, co-funded by NSW Government and Council, aims to assist sporting clubs across NSW in the purchase and maintenance of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs).
An AED is a life saving device which delivers a controlled shock to an individual experiencing cardiac arrest, increasing their chances of survival. Parkes Sports Council representative, Councillor Louise O’Leary said: “Council is 100% behind having these life-saving units within out sporting facilities.”
“As a health worker, I know how important first-response CPR is in instances of cardiac arrest.” “We know that these machines save lives, so it’s fantastic that they will now be easily accessible throughout our community.”
The equipment and free training delivered by the Red Cross were given to the Parkes Railway Bowling Club, Peak Hill Golf Club, Parkes Rugby League Club, Parkes Cricket Association and the Parkes Rugby Union Club. Parkes Rugby Union Vice President Ben Ryan said: “It’s so important to have defibrillators accessible at any venue where
there will be large groups of people.”
“It’s taking care of not just players but spectators and support staff and anyone else using the venue.” “This program and the assistance from Council demonstrates that they really care about the local community and keeping people safe. We hope we’ll never need it but it’s so important to have on hand just in case.”
Round 2 of the program will open in the coming months, and local sporting groups interested in getting an AED machine for their club are encouraged to contact Parkes Shire Grants Officer on 6861 2398, to find out how to apply.