URGENT UPDATE: With cardiac arrests skyrocketing in Victoria, Ambulance Victoria (AV) is launching an immediate call for residents of Bolinda and Monegeetta to learn or refresh their cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) skills. Just announced, AV is urging locals to participate in critical training sessions during Shocktober to help save lives.
As AV Loddon Mallee regional director Matt McCrohan highlighted, “Every day, around 21 Victorians suffer cardiac arrests, yet only one in ten survive.” This staggering statistic underscores the urgent need for community members to be equipped with life-saving skills. “For every minute CPR is delayed, survival decreases by 10 percent,” McCrohan warned.
Cardiac arrests can strike anyone, at any time, regardless of age or health status. McCrohan’s message is clear: “You don’t need to be a paramedic to save a life. Just remember to Call (Triple 000), Push (perform CPR), and Shock (use an AED).”
To further bolster community readiness, AV is encouraging residents to sign up as GoodSAM responders. This innovative mobile app connects individuals experiencing cardiac arrest with trained volunteers nearby who can begin hands-only CPR while waiting for paramedics to arrive.
Residents are invited to participate in “Call, Push, Shock” training sessions hosted by AV throughout Shocktober. A special event will take place during the Bolinda-Monegeetta CFA Bonfire Night on Saturday, October 18, at 5 PM, where attendees can learn essential skills and gain knowledge about locating nearby automated external defibrillators (AEDs).
McCrohan emphasized the importance of community involvement: “Shocktober is about giving Victorians a better chance of returning to their loved ones.” As the number of cardiac emergencies rises, the urgency for local residents to be prepared has never been greater.
Join the fight to save lives—learn CPR today and make a difference in your community. Don’t miss the opportunity to get involved and empower yourself with life-saving skills during this critical initiative.
Stay tuned for more details on training sessions and community events throughout Shocktober. Your action today can mean a second chance for someone tomorrow.
