Paynesville groups join forces to protect lifesaving equipment

Two Paynesville community groups have joined forces to help protect lifesaving equipment located throughout the local area.

Since 2018, the Paynesville Ambulance Auxiliary has purchased 21 automated external defibrillators (AEDs), placing them at locations across Paynesville, Eagle Point, Raymond Island and Newlands Arm.

The Auxiliary now helps maintain 26 AEDs, including supplying replacement pads and batteries to ensure the equipment is ready for use. The AEDs are part of the GoodSAM program, an online platform that connects people experiencing a cardiac arrest with nearby trained first responders.

But keeping the defibrillators ready for use is only part of the job. Many are housed in metal cabinets exposed to the elements, and over time some of the cabinets have started to deteriorate.

That’s where the Paynesville Men’s Shed has lent a hand.

Men’s Shed members have been restoring the ageing cabinets for just the cost of materials, helping to extend their life and protect the important equipment inside.

The restoration work has included raising the AEDs within the cabinets to better protect them from water damage, as well as replacing deteriorated plastic windows.

The partnership is a great example of local volunteers sharing their skills and working together to help keep lifesaving equipment protected, maintained and ready should an emergency arise.