Hannah, Daniel and Fiona from Altona P-9 College are happy to have access to a defibrillator thanks to Claude Bury and Alan Newton. 81102 Picture: VANESSA CHIRCOP
By VANESSA CHIRCOP
CLAUDE Bury has made it his mission to provide defibrillators to those who need it most.
Through the Heartstart Program with the Williamstown Rotary Club, Claude has provided countless numbers of these lifesaving devices to families across Australia.
But it’s not only families who have benefited from Claude’s tireless efforts, schools are also reaping the rewards.
Altona P-9 College became the 20th school to receive a defibrillator through the program, with funding being sourced from the ‘Let’s Go Cruisin’ Association’.
The car enthusiasts’ group hold cruises and other activities whilst raising money for charity.
The profits raised at its January social event went to the Heartstart program, with Altona P-9 College and Spotswood Primary School receiving a defibrillator each.
Alan Newton from ‘Let’s Go Cruisin’ said he was keen for the funds to go back into the local community.
When Claude started the Heartstart Program eight years ago not many people knew what a defibrillator was.
Today, the majority of people know and understand the benefit of having quick access to a defibrillator in an emergency. Teacher Paul Bombaci said Altona P-9 College was pleased with the donation.
“Anytime you get something that is going to help save lives has got to be a good thing,” he said.
Teacher Matt Kelly said you never know when you might need a device like a defibrillator.
The teachers agreed that it was not only a benefit to the students and teachers but to anyone within close proximity to the school.
For more information or to make a donation to the Heartstart Program visit www.heartstart.org.au.
