November 19, 2013
The Kingaroy Combined Division of the St John Ambulance Cadets have $5000 worth of new equipment thanks to a grant from Stanwell Corporation.
The unit has purchased two digital hand-held radios and two trauma kits.
Stanwell and the South Burnett Regional Council – who were instrumental in the cadet unit starting up in Kingaroy – were thanked at a special meeting of the members held on Monday night.
Divisional Manager Naomi Beutel said the group had started out with nothing when they were formed just under 12 months ago.
“Stanwell have certainly helped us out and we are also very thankful to Council,” she said.
“We have seen the Division grow and flourish. It has been absolutely fantastic.”
Rob Woodall, from Stanwell, said he believed the group had made fantastic use of the donated money.
“It is going to a great cause and will be benefitting the whole community,” he said.
Naomi said the Division had identified the need for portable radios and trauma kits when on duty at large events such as the Goomeri Pumpkin Festival, Manumbar Campdraft, Blackbutt Show / Bullride and the RSPCA Million Paws Walk.
“Often we have first aid members stationed at opposite sides of a football field, which can make things difficult if we need more equipment or emergency transportation for a casualty,” she said.
She said the radios could reduce stress on emergency services.
“These radios mean we have better communication with one another at an event. If one of our members spots someone collapsing or they require assistance, we are a touch of a button away,” she said.
The trauma kits would also prove to be invaluable, as they provide the Division with a quick and effective way to carry life-saving equipment “on the go”.
“Providing quicker response times at community events is something we pride ourselves on and this funding will help us achieve that.
“We are proud to help members of the community feel safer and enjoy their local events knowing St John (Qld) has direct radio contact with the First Aid Post and emergency services.”
The Kingaroy Combined Division boasts more than 55 members with accreditations ranging from first aider to Divisional Paramedic.
“We are always looking for more members to join,” Naomi said.
Members receive nationally recognised training in first aid and valuable experience in the medical industry.
They meet every Monday night at the Kingaroy SES Headquarters in Glendon Street.
For more information, contact Naomi by email
Related articles:
