“Sudden cardiac arrest is the main cause of death in Australia and can strike anyone,” said local paramedic Mark Jolly.

“The first four minutes are vital, that’s well before an ambulance can respond. For every minute that passes, the chance of survival reduces by 10 per cent.

“A shock to the heart from a defibrillator is the only definitive treatment so having one on hand can save a life.

“Defibrillators these days are easy to use and maintain, require no training and the machine talks the operator through it.”

Mr Jolly thanked Narooma Rotary, Narooma Plaza management and Woolworths for their initiative, adding that this is the first defibrillator in Narooma available for general use.

Narooma Plaza manager Mark Anderson said the $2400 unit provided added safety for the community.

Narooma Rotary project coordinator Chris O’Brien said Rotary hoped to purchase more defibrillators in the future.

Other defibrillators in the district are located at Club Narooma, Club Dalmeny and Narooma Golf Club.

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