Lifesaving device boosts safety at Narrabri Jockey Club

The Narrabri Jockey Club has taken a major step forward in improving safety at local sporting events, securing a new portable defibrillator thanks to funding from the NSW government’s Office of Sport.

The grant was awarded under the Local Sport Defibrillator Program, which aims to equip community sport and recreation facilities across the state with lifesaving devices to assist in the event of sudden cardiac arrest.

Narrabri Jockey Club president Will Childs welcomed the addition of the defibrillator, describing it as a valuable asset for the entire sporting community.

“The health and safety of our patrons, participants and volunteers is always a priority,” Mr Childs said.

“Thanks to this support from the NSW government, we now have a portable defibrillator that will be present at our race meetings. Importantly, it will also be available for use during other community and sporting events held at the racecourse.”

“In an emergency, access to a defibrillator can make all the difference, and having one on hand gives everyone peace of mind.”

Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said that the Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program is a sign of the NSW government’s commitment to ensuring the state’s regional communities have access to live saving equipment.

“This grant program equips sporting clubs and organisations to be able to respond to potentially life-threatening emergencies at their facilities,” Mr Kamper said.

“Having a defibrillator on hand gives more people the confidence to exercise and take part in sport and sporting events, especially in regional areas where emergency medical services naturally are spread further apart.”

Member for Barwon Roy Butler said these devices don’t require specialised training, so in case of a cardiac arrest, anyone who’s there could help save someone’s life.

“I’d like to thank the NSW government for increasing the number of these devices that are available in regional areas,” Mr Butler said.

The portable device is designed to be easily transported, making it suitable for use across different areas of the racecourse precinct.

It will be shared with other sporting groups and event organisers who use the venue, helping to ensure broader community access to this critical piece of equipment.

As the defibrillator will not always be kept onsite, groups or individuals planning to host an event at the racecourse are encouraged to contact the Narrabri Jockey Club ahead of time to arrange access.

The Narrabri Jockey Club shares racecourse facilities with a range of local sporting and community groups. The addition of the defibrillator ensures that a wider network of locals and visitors benefit from improved emergency preparedness.