Defibrillator for men’s shed

Stawell Men’s Shed members have piece of mind after the purchase of a new defibrillator for the shed.

The defibrillator, which delivers an electric shock that can help reset a person’s irregular heartbeat, was purchased with $2850 from disability employment services provider WDEA Works.

The shed operates under the auspices of Stawell Regional Health and provides a social and supportive environment for men of all ages.

Stawell Men’s Shed volunteer Phill Bennett said the machine helped ensure the safety of the shed’s members and gave them a new skill.

“The men will have an opportunity to work with other community members and become more connected to the community in a safer environment, and our unemployed participants will be able to include their knowledge of how to use a defibrillator on their resumes,” he said.

WDEA Works Horsham and Stawell site manager Karen Thomas said the purchase of a defibrillator would make a difference to the entire community.

“This is just one of the many ways that WDEA Works contributes to the local needs of our community,” she said.

The WDEA Works Foundation is a community grants scheme that provides grants of up to $10,000 to individual programs or projects. The foundation’s next round of funding will close on March 31.

People can apply for grants by visiting website www. wdeaworks.org.au/about/ wdea-works-foundation.

People wanting more information about Stawell Men’s Shed can call 5358 2384.