IN the quiet hinterland community of Girralong, about 30 minutes from Bowraville, a grassroots health initiative is making a powerful difference.
The Girralong Defib Project was born out of urgency following two heart attacks suffered by a much-loved local resident.
In both instances, emergency services took up to 90 minutes to reach Girralong; a delay that inspired a group of locals to take matters into their own hands.
Led by Andy Croaker, Denise Deboer, Tom Macindoe, Judy Readman and David Phillips, the Girralong Defib Project Committee formed with a clear and critical mission, to install three publicly accessible Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) throughout the area.
Thanks to overwhelming community support and several generous donors, including one anonymous contribution of $3,650, the Committee quickly reached its funding goal.
Each unit costs approximately $3,500 to purchase and install.
One of the units, donated by the Bowra Sports Hub and refurbished, helped reduce costs further.
Girralong is now home to three AEDs, located strategically at the Girralong Fireshed, an old bus shelter at Gravelly Creek, and at Argents Hill near the hall and fireshed, all positioned along North Arm Road.
But the work doesn’t stop there as AEDs require regular maintenance, whether used or not.
Pads and batteries have a limited lifespan and must be replaced periodically, costing up to $500 per unit.
To ensure these life-saving devices remain ready, the Committee continues to raise funds and seek both individual and business support.
Enter the Curry Muster, an annual community gathering hosted by the Argents Hill Hall Committee, who have offered to donate all proceeds from this year’s event to the cause.
Held on Sunday 29 June, kicking off at midday at the Argents Hill Hall, the Curry Muster is a feast cooked by local culinary talents and at the event boasts a raffle worth over $3,500 in prizes.
The major prizes have been donated by Alf Blakey, Jenny Phillips and BP Macksville.
Entry is $10.00 for adults, and kids are free.
A Defib Demo will be held at the Curry Muster to demonstrate just how user friendly these devices are.
To donate to the cause, visit communitydefibproject.org.au/donations or email info@communitydefibproject.org.au.
By Mick BIRTLES
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