First aid for community volunteers

EIGHT volunteers from the Heathcote community took part in first aid training last week.

The session was held at Barrack Reserve Hall.

“It’s a great result,” said community house executive officer Vicki Forde who helped to coordinate the training.

“We have some more fabulous volunteers in our community working towards becoming qualified First Aiders.

“Thank you to the groups and organisations who took up the opportunity to have volunteers trained with lifesaving skills.”

Participating volunteers came from Heathcote Tennis Club, Heathcote & District Pony Club, Holy Rosary, Heathcote RFDS and Heathcote Community House.

“It is such a privilege to help people who live and work in Heathcote and surrounding towns,” said Ms Forde.

“Knowing people have gained these amazing skills to help them, their families, workplaces, volunteer groups and organisations is fantastic.

“And especially for them to be able to attend locally and not have to travel.”

The course was facilitated by Colin Flitton from Access Skills Training.

Mr Flitton has been teaching for 16 years and working with the community house for the past 12 years.

“If you do something, something might happen,” he said.

“If you do nothing, nothing will happen. It’s best to do something.”

Mr Flitton showed participants lifesaving and practical skills enabling them to provide vital first aid before emergency services arrive.

“We were able to offer subsidised places thanks to the City of Greater Bendigo, Emergency Recovery Victoria and Community Hub funding,” said Ms Forde.

“Another first aid course will be offered in the not-too-distant future.”

Anyone who would like to register their interest can contact the community house on 5433 2820.