Heart Start Kurnell:
Ampol's new public access defibrillator
Heart Start Kurnell - Ampol's new public access defibrillator
Every second counts when saving a life - and equipping communities with the right tools and knowledge can make all the difference.
That’s why St John NSW has proudly supported Heart Start Kurnell, a local initiative aimed at creating a safer and more prepared community through the installation of public access defibrillators (PADs) and CPR training.
In response to a recent medical emergency involving a Kurnell Terminal Ampol employee, this initiative was launched to recognised the critical need for immediate access to defibrillation and trained responders in the community.
The first public access defibrillator has already been installed at the front of the Kurnell Post Office, with the next unit to be placed at the whale watching platform at Cape Solander (Kamay Botany Bay National Park).
Why is this so important? Sudden cardiac arrest is one of the leading causes of death in Australia, and survival depends largely on the speed of intervention. When a defibrillator is used within the first few minutes of cardiac arrest, it can increase survival rates by up to 70%. Unfortunately, emergency services can’t always arrive within those vital first minutes—which is why public access to defibrillators and community CPR training is crucial.
As part of the initiative, St John Ambulance NSW delivered CPR training courses to Kurnell residents, fully subsidised by Ampol. These sessions equipped dozens of community members with essential lifesaving skills, empowering them with the confidence to respond effectively in an emergency. Defibrillators are simple to use, and alongside CPR training, anyone can help save a life.
We're also encouraging all trained individuals to download and join the GoodSAM responder app, which alerts nearby members when someone is in cardiac arrest. By becoming part of this network, you can help bring emergency care to someone when it’s needed most.
Heart Start Kurnell was a great example of how local people can come together to train and contribute to a safer community for all.
How You Can Make a Difference:
- Locate your nearest defibrillator or advocate for one in your community today.
- Stay up to date with CPR training - did you know that it's reccomended you refresh your Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) every 12 months, and Provide First Aid every 3 years?
Click the link below to find your closest St John Ambulance first aid training venue:
- Download the GoodSAM app and join a growing network of responders in your community tooday.
Click the link below to check out the GoodSAM responder app: