Five defibs
West Gippsland residents are in safer hands after the installation of five new defibrillators.
The 24-hour publicly accessible life-saving devices have been fitted at Longwarry, Ellinbank, Yarragon, Trafalgar and Thorpdale, thanks to community donations.
The Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), which are in alarmed cabinets, are used to shock the heart back into rhythm following a cardiac arrest.
Ambulance Victoria paramedic community support coordinator (PCSC) Ross Salathiel said they were a welcome addition and would make a real difference to the area.
They are located at Longwarry IGA, Ellinbank Recreation Reserve, Yarragon Lions Op Shop, Trafalgar Pub (Criterion Hotel) and Thorpdale Bakery.
“Cardiac arrest happens when a person’s heart suddenly stops beating and it can happen to anyone, anytime, anywhere,” said Mr Salathiel.
“Minutes matter in cardiac arrest and the sooner a person receives CPR and the application of a defibrillator, the better their chances of survival,” he said.
Community groups who supported installation of the AEDs are Community Bank Drouin and District, Ellinbank Football and Netball Club, Warragul Ambulance Auxiliary, Yarragon Lions, and Community Bank Trafalgar and District.
“We are so grateful for the fundraising efforts of local groups who have helped make these AEDs a reality,” Mr Salathiel said.
Mr Salathiel added anyone could use the AEDs, regardless of whether they have received training.
“Bystanders are the critical first link in the chain of survival and can keep patients alive before highly-trained paramedics arrive,” he said.
“Simply open it up and follow the instructions. It is safe and will not allow a shock to be given unless necessary.”
The defibrillators have been registered on the Ambulance Victoria website, which allows Triple Zero call-takers to direct people to the nearest device in a medical emergency.
If your community is interested in fundraising for an AED, or you have one that isn’t accessible or registered, please call the PCSC phone for help on 0438 796 835.
The Gippsland Community Leadership Program, now in its 25th year, has entered a partnership with the Gurnaikurnai community in the region.
Two Indigenous people are among this year’s intake of 27 after another participated last year.
As part of a recently signed memorandum of understanding the Gurnaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation is providing an annual scholarship for an emerging leader from the Gurnaikurnai community to undertake the leadership program.
GCLP program director Mark Answerth said the program was continuing this year despite restrictions associated with the coronavirus pandemic.
He said as well as the benefits for Indigenous leaders their involvement would help the program expand its knowledge of Aboriginal culture and understanding of first nation people in Gippsland.
It is an exciting initiative for GCLP that will help build trust and partnerships between the two entities, their staff and Gippsland communities, Mr Answerth stated.
GLaWAC chief executive officer Roger Fenwick said there were numerous and complex demands on Aboriginal and other leaders.
“Programs such as the GCLP are vital in supporting the networks, personal awareness and skills required to be a strong leader and help our Mobs achieve the outcomes they deserve”.
GLaWC is committed to supporting Aboriginal leaders on their journeys, Mr Fenwick said.
The GCLP is a program of the Committee for Gippsland.