Curlewis Public School P&C are fundraising for a “much-needed” defibrillator for the community.
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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.