Dubbo racegoers will be able to enjoy peace of mind trackside with the support of the NSW Government’s $500,000 Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program.
Nationals’ Member for Dubbo Dugald Saunders has announced $4,500 for the Dubbo Turf Club to install two automated external defibrillators at the track.
“We know early defibrillation can be the difference between life and death in the case of a cardiac arrest – nine out of every 10 people who suffer one outside of hospital don’t survive,” Mr Saunders said.
“16,000 people flock to race meetings and other community events at the Dubbo Turf Club every year, and this funding could quite literally save lives.”
The latest round of the Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program saw record demand for the devices from grass roots sporting organisations across NSW.
Dubbo Turf Club president Sam Fitzgerald said the AEDs would also help the dozens of people operating individual businesses from the track on a daily basis.
“It’s reassuring to know that, if someone was to unfortunately go into cardiac arrest, we’d have the facilities available here to help until the emergency services arrive, and possibly save somebody’s life,” Mr Fitzgerald said.
“Thank you to the NSW Government and the Office of Sport in being proactive in addressing these needs.
“We’re very thankful to receive the funding and it’s going to go to two very key pieces of equipment that will help keep our trainers, jockeys, staff and visitors safe.”
For further information on the Local Sports Defibrillator Program, visit www.sport.nsw.gov.au.
