First aid support for sporting club volunteers

Free first aid courses are being offered to local sporting clubs as part of an initiative to increase the number of qualified first aiders at sporting venues.

The partnership between the Shire of Broome and St John Ambulance began in 2018 and provides clubs with the skills to provide first aid, not just on the sporting field but in the community.

Participants can attend a full-day course on Saturday 23 March; or two evening sessions in consecutive weeks starting 18 and 25 March.

Shire of Broome Club Development Officer, Mike Doyle, said the partnership with St John was a great way of ensuring the sporting community played a lead role in increasing first aid knowledge in the wider community.

“We had great success with this initiative last year, but the high turnover of volunteers means there is always a need to accredit new people,” Mr Doyle said.

“By providing training free of charge we're hoping that will encourage another great turnout from a range of clubs.”

Participants in the first aid course will also qualify to take part in a free Sports Trainer Course to be held on 30 March at BRAC.

St John Ambulance North West Regional Manager, Travis Gowland, said the initiative was in line with the organisation’s purpose of making first aid part of everyone’s life.

“This partnership is a great way to reward and support those people who volunteer their time to allow our community to engage in the wide range of sporting activities available,” Mr Gowland said.

“Trainers will tailor scenarios to presentations commonly associated with participation in sport.”

If you are a club official or committee member, coach, referee/umpire or other support member contact St John Ambulance on 9192 0706, advise your course preference and quote code SHIRESPORT. Places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis, and all courses are held at St John Ambulance in Broome.

Anyone interested in developing their club should contact Mr Doyle on 9191 3456 or at [email protected]