Sports clubs in Grafton, Iluka and Maclean have been successful in securing lifesaving emergency medical equipment after taking advantage of the NSW Government’s new defibrillator subsidy initiative, Clarence Nationals MP Chris Gulaptis has announced.

“The Government introduced subsidies of up to $1300 or 50 per cent of the cost for the purchase, training and maintenance of defibrillators and it is great to see local sports clubs take up the offer,” Mr Gulaptis said.

The clubs are Grafton Polocrosse Club, Iluka and Maclean Football Clubs and the Lower Clarence Amateur Rowing and Sculling Club.

Mr Gulaptis praised the clubs and applauded the Government imitative saying that it would save lives.

“More than 33,000 Australians have a heart attack every year and quick access to CPR and defibrillation increases survival rate by 75 per cent,” Mr Gulaptis said.

“I encourage other sports clubs to apply under the next round of funding which is now open.

“Half a million dollars in funding is available so get in quick to have the best chance of securing a grant,” Mr Gulaptis said.

Applications under the new funding round close on May 6.  Eligible sports clubs and organisations can receive between $1250 and $1900 in funds towards the cost of a defibrillator.

Details about applications and eligibility can be found at: www.sport.nsw.gov.au/clubs/grants/defibrillator.