Assistant principal Glenn Burrell said after participating in first aid on their staff development day, the school realised the need for a defibrillator.

He said the prominent community location of the school highlighted this need.

The school paid for the defibrillator upfront, but the current class of year six are raising money to be able to give the safety equipment to the school as their departing gift.

The school applied for the Project Defib grant in February, which allowed them to purchase the equipment for $2600 rather than the full price of $4200.

Project Defib is an initiative of the Australian Red Cross in partnership with Defib Tech, whereby sporting clubs and schools are offered a discounted package for defibrillators and accessories.

The defibrillator the school received includes a video screen to coach the user through the rescue and provide step-by-step instructions for performing CPR, rescue breathing and external defibrillation.

Australian Red Cross trainer Tracy Ellem visited the school to give the senior students a demonstration and advice on how to use the defibrillator.

Mr. Burrell said he is glad the school now has the equipment that greatly increases the chance of survival of patients.

He said the students are also very proud to be donating such a worthwhile gift.

“They are very excited to be doing something that may save the life of someone in the community,” he said.

Funds will be raised by year six through various ongoing events including school discos each term.