Sports facilities across the Bega Valley and Eurobodalla can now apply for a share of $500,000 in NSW Government funding to install life-saving defibrillators.
The Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program offers up to $3,000 to eligible clubs to purchase automated external defibrillators (AEDs). These devices can be crucial in responding to out-of-hospital cardiac arrests, which affect more than 9,000 people annually in NSW.
Listen back to a past episode of the iHeart Far South Coast podcast that explores the importance of AEDs and the experience Narooma local Tom Haynes (pictured below) and the old Yellow Wiggle.
Member for Bega, Dr. Michael Holland, emphasised the importance of ensuring local sports facilities are equipped to handle such emergencies.
“Having access to a defibrillator can make the difference between life and death,” said Dr. Holland.
“This program supports our local sporting clubs to be prepared for potential life-threatening incidents.”
Since the program’s launch, over 2,000 defibrillators have been installed across the state.
With applications closing on November 27, 2024, or when funding is exhausted, local clubs are encouraged to act quickly to secure this vital equipment.
For eligibility details and application guidelines, visit the NSW Government’s sports grants page.
Images: Phil Haynes
