Live saving defibrillator machines will become part of the kit of more Clarence and Richmond Valley volunteer emergency services groups thanks to a $10,000 investment by the NSW Government, Clarence Nationals MP Chris Gulaptis has announced.

“There is no question these devices save lives. So, it is a really good thing they will be added to the arsenal of Grafton City, Maclean and Woodburn SES units as well as Evans Head Marine Rescue,” Mr Gulaptis said.

“The Government previously supplied them to local surf clubs and it just makes sense that rescue organisations should also have this equipment on hand.”

Defibrillation is a treatment for life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmias. A defibrillator delivers a dose of electric current (often called a counter-shock) to the heart.

NSW Volunteer Rescue Association Commissioner Mark Gibson said the investment means squads can spend less time on the street raising funds to purchase equipment like the defibrillators and more time in training their members.

Mr Gulaptis urged young locals to consider joining the SES and and Marine Rescue in order to save lives, gain valuable teamwork and leadership skills and make new friends.

More information at marinerescuensw.com.au and ses.nsw.gov.au.