Boatshed secures defibrillator

WENDOUREE Ballarat Rowing Club’s shed user groups now have access to lifesaving technology in the event of a cardiac emergency.

With funds raised by Wesley College Clunes Campus’ year 9 parent community, the rowing and dragon-boating facility has secured and installed an automated external defibrillator.

During the shed’s operating hours, any rowers, Dragons Abreast Ballarat or Golden Dragons paddlers, or members of the public will be able to use it if a person nearby needs reviving.

Dragons Abreast Ballarat president Wendy Jacobs said the AED brings peace of mind to the shed.

“We, and Golden Dragons as our sister club, have had a defib on our agenda for many years because of our demographic, and because dragon boating is an extreme sport,” she said.

“We hope we never have to use it, but we’re really pleased that it’s now there.”

Wesley College’s parent-led fundraising campaign stemmed from Dragons Abreast and the Golden Dragons’ coaching relationship with the school’s year 9 students.

“We have given them the opportunity to dragon-boat on Lake Wendouree. We took six boat-loads out over three sessions,” Ms Jacobs said.

“They’ve also been able to learn about Dragons Abreast, which was set up as an exercise option for breast cancer survivors, and now 25 years later, it’s a world-wide movement.

“Exercising and socialising is very beneficial for breast cancer survivors post-treatment.”

For many participating pupils, it was their first time trying the sport and visiting the lake. Ms Jacobs said having them in the boat, alongside experienced paddlers, was refreshing.

“Hosting the young kids and feeling their enthusiasm has been great. Introducing them to Ballarat, our lake, and the basic skills of dragon-boating reminded us of how challenging the sport actually is.

“It has been very enjoyable for everyone,” Ms Jacobs said.