Ararat and Stawell Archers is set to take its game up a notch when it comes to dealing with an emergency with a new defibrillator and training package from the state government.
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State Member for Western Victoria Jaala Pulford announced Ararat and Stawell Archers Club will receive a package from the Defibrillators for Sporting Clubs and Facilities Program.
Ms Pulford said the government is getting on with the roll out of 1,000 defibrillators to clubs and facilities throughout Victoria.
“Our roll out has been a huge success, delivering almost 900 defibrillators to clubs,” she said.
“That means there are still over 100 defibrillators and training packages still up for grabs,” Ms Pulford said.
“We here in Western Victoria are proud of clubs like Ararat and Stawell Archers and their efforts to make their environment more safe and enjoyable for all.
“This defibrillator package will make sure the club has the right equipment and training in case an emergency strikes.”
St John Ambulance Victoria chief executive officer Gordon Botwright said defibrillators have already saved countless lives across Victoria.
“We believe defibs should be a standard piece of medical equipment at all sporting clubs to protect the players, volunteers and supporters,” he said.
“We understand that clubs struggle to raise the funds to purchase a defib which is why programs such as this are vital for the community.”
Ararat and Stawell Archers Club president Doug Devlin said the package will benefit a range of clubs as well as his.
“We will house the defibrillator in our club rooms at Great Western Recreation Reserve but it will be shared if required with any other groups,” he said.
“There is a lot of horse riding and functions held there so it is good to have a defibrillator around in case of an emergency.
“We also have an older membership population so it is more likely an older person will require one than a teenager.”
The defibrillator package is the second government handout the Archers club has received in 2017, also receiving upgrades to shades back in March.
Devlin said both shade and defibrillator grants make the club a safe place to be.
“It is difficult for little clubs like ours to raise funds,” he said. “Having the shade and defibrillator is a really welcome safety arrangement for our club.”
