Upwey Community Bank has donated two life-saving portable defibrillators to Belgrave Police Station, which are now available to both officers and the public.
Senior Sergeant Cassandra Forbes, officer in charge at Belgrave Police, said the addition of defibrillators is a game-changer when it comes to responding to medical emergencies.
“We’re often the first on the scene, and while we carry first aid kits and are trained in first aid, having access to a defibrillator can really improve someone’s chances of survival,” Sergeant Forbes said.
“Especially in the more remote areas around Mt Dandenong, having the right equipment on hand could make all the difference.”
Sergeant Forbes shared a personal story that brought the importance of defibrillators into sharp focus.
In 2022, during a four-month road trip around Australia, she and her family carried a defibrillator in their caravan.
While staying in Broome, her husband was called to help a man who had gone into cardiac arrest in the middle of the night.
“We were able to use the defibrillator from our car and give the man a couple of shocks before the ambulance arrived,” she said.
“It was a real wake-up call for me, and since then, I’ve placed a much higher importance on having a defibrillator close by, wherever I go.”
The defibrillators were provided after a request from Belgrave Police to Upwey Community Bank, and the bank was more than happy to help.
Dandenong Ranges Community Bank chair, Deb Weber said supporting local emergency services is something the bank is proud to do.
“The defibrillators are an essential emergency response tool, and we’re pleased to provide this support. It’s something we can do to help our community, and it’s thanks to our customers that this support is possible,” Ms Weber said.
“We always get positive feedback for our contributions to local services, and we’re thrilled to be part of this life-saving initiative.”
Sergeant Forbes is also encouraging the community to be aware of the new defibrillator outside the station.
“It’s there for anyone who needs it, day or night. If you ever find yourself in an emergency, just call Triple Zero, and we’ll make sure an ambulance is on the way and assist with using the defibrillator if needed,” she said.
This generous donation is another great example of local organisations working together to look out for one another and strengthen the safety of the entire community.
