P&C president Casey West said with a 37 minute round trip to Gunnedah Hospital from Curlewis, a defibrillator on-hand could be life saving.

”Not only our school but our community is in need of one,” Ms West said.

“It is a 37 minute round trip with sirens and lights flashing and that’s if they are not caught by a train.

“Sometimes you can sit there for six to seven minutes minimum.”

Ms West said a number of incidents at the school sparked the fundraising idea.

The P&C are hosting a trivia night at the Curlewis Community Hall on July 22 to raise funds for the cause.

Ms West said defibrillators can cost up to $5000-6000, including staff training.

“We will be able to use it elsewhere in the community,” she said.

“We have a lot of elderly people that volunteer at our school as well so that’s why we want to have it on hand.

“Obviously it can save somebody’s life.”

A motion was carried at Gunnedah Shire Council’s ordinary meeting last week to provide sponsorship for the fundraiser.

The recommendation was to provide $100 in cash and $100 in kind – prizes for the raffle or auction – in support.

Councillor Colleen Fuller moved the motion.

“It is my understanding all schools in Gunnedah were given defibrillators and the village schools weren’t,” Cr Fuller said.

“I think it’s a great initiative.

“There is a child who has had their second need for a defibrillator there.

“It would be a tragedy to lose a child.”

Councillor Gae Swain also showed support for the recommendation.

“This is an organisation that has a little child in need,” Cr Swain said.

“I like that the school is getting behind this child and getting involved so we should too. 

“I whole-heartedly agree with supporting this.”

A raffle and an auction will also be held on the night.

Tickets are available from Curlewis Public School and are $35 per head, which includes a three-course meal.

For more information or to book a table for the trivia night, phone Casey West at the Curlewis Public School on 6744 1239.