A new publicly accessible defibrillator has been installed in Yanderra, marking a significant step forward in community safety and emergency preparedness.
Located outside the home of local resident Dennise Hanmore, the Automated External Defibrillator (AED) has been installed in honour of her late husband, Roy (pictured above), who died after a sudden cardiac arrest.
With ambulance assistance more than 40 minutes away and no AED nearby at the time, Roy could not be saved.
“Had there been an AED close by, things could have been very different,” says Ms Hanmore.
“That’s something you carry with you. You don’t forget it.”
Determined to create change from loss, Dennise has led the installation of the device at her Yanderra home, ensuring it is accessible to the public 24 hours a day.
“I didn’t want anyone else to be in the same position,” she said.
“If this can save even one life, then Roy’s story matters.”
The AED, which will be officially unveiled this Friday, was donated by Bargo Sports Club as part of Heart Safe Wollondilly. This is a partnership of Wollondilly Business Chamber, Wollondilly Shire Council, and local volunteers.
Chamber president Pania Gregson said the initiative is focused not only on increasing access to AEDs, but ensuring they are registered and usable in an emergency.
“An AED can mean the difference between life and death, but only if people know where to find it,” Ms Gregson said.
“That’s why we’re working to ensure all devices are registered with GoodSAM, so 000 operators can direct callers to the nearest AED when every second counts.”
The GoodSAM network plays a critical role in cardiac emergencies, connecting emergency services with nearby registered AEDs and volunteer responders.
Without registration, even a nearby device may not be identified in time.
As part of the program, businesses and residents are encouraged to register their AEDs with GoodSAM, complete CPR training, become GoodSAM responders, and familiarise themselves with AED locations across Wollondilly.
State member for Wollondilly Judith Hannan has also supported the initiative, relocating an AED at her office to ensure it is accessible to the public 24/7.
“Access to life-saving equipment like AEDs should never depend on chance or proximity,’’ Ms Hannan said.
The Yanderra installation is a powerful reminder of how community action can save lives. For Dennise, it is also a lasting tribute to Roy, a man remembered for his quiet kindness and willingness to help others.
“He would have been the first to step in,” she said. “Now, in a way, he still is.”