A community defibrillator installed just two months ago in East Kurrajong has already proven its worth in a medical emergency in late January, just 64 days after installation, highlighting the importance of accessible life-saving equipment in rural areas.

The automated external defibrillator (AED), located at 725 East Kurrajong Road, was installed in November 2024 through the generous sponsorship of Community Bank North Richmond & Districts and Richmond. Local resident Alyssa Pluckè spearheaded the initiative to bring the equipment to the community.

On January 22nd, the device was first used when Good Samaritan Robert Drake responded to an emergency alert through the GoodSam Responder app, a platform partnered with NSW Ambulance. Drake was able to quickly access the defibrillator and provide emergency care until paramedics arrived.

"It was great to have the community defibrillator available on EK Road. It was easy to get it, easy to use, and invaluable with the patient," Drake said in a Facebook post. He praised Pluckè's organisation efforts and the bank's funding support and emphasised the need for additional units in the area.

"Shout out to Alyssa Pluckè for organising it and to Bendigo Bank North Richmond for funding it. It would be great if we had more Defibs available (our community covers a wide area). 2. I was paged because I had signed up to the GoodSam Responder app," he said on Facebook. 

The incident has sparked calls for more community members with basic first aid training to download the GoodSam Responder app, and Robert's post inspired at least one person to sign up for the app: "Thanks for sharing. Have signed up," wrote Robert Upton on the post. The platform, which partners with NSW Ambulance, alerts nearby registered responders to emergencies in their vicinity, potentially saving crucial minutes in life-threatening situations.

After a few days out of action waiting for new pads, the defibrillator has had replacement pads delivered, making it ready for action once again. 

In Alyssa's Facebook Post announcing the new defibrillator in November, she also called for additional donations to install more defibrillators in the area. All donations over $2 are tax-deductible, and interested community members are encouraged to enquire about supporting future installations at www.communitydefibproject.org.au .

The community AED is designed for 24/7 public access and can be identified by code C2758.