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St John training provides rural reward

Announcement posted by Comworth 08 Oct 2014

A St John and Federated Farmers first aid initiative has given rural residents in Waikato life- saving skills.

Young Farmers Casey Huffstutler, St John BDM Andrew James and Waikato Federated Farmers Chair Lloyd Downing, present course attendee and prize winner Stephen Needham (from Walton rural Waikato) with the Panasonic Toughpad.

Young Farmers Casey Huffstutler, St John BDM Andrew James and Waikato Federated Farmers Chair Lloyd Downing, present course attendee and prize winner Stephen Needham (from Walton rural Waikato) with the Panasonic Toughpad.

“From May through to July a series of workshops were held in association with Waikato Federated Farmers Charitable Society (WFFCS), free of charge to rural communities throughout Waikato,” St John Central Region Business Development Manager Andrew James says.

The aim of the joint venture was to prepare rural communities with first aid skills that would make a difference in an emergency.

“We were completely overwhelmed by the response all of the courses were fully booked well in advance of their start dates,” he says.

The unique two hour workshops were limited to 15 participants and designed specifically for rural communities with practical, hands-on experience in an interactive and fun environment.

“It was all made possible by WFFCS who funded the workshops. It was a fantastic opportunity available to everyone that lived and/or works in rural Waikato. The workshops provided something for both experienced first aiders and people with little or no experience,” he says.

A bonus for all workshop attendees was going in the draw to win aPanasonic Toughpad valued at $1,799. (Special conditions apply).

At the completion of the series of workshops, 201 people had received the first aid training and Walton resident Stephen Needham was drawn as the winner of the Panasonic Toughpad.

“First aid skills are vital tools for people who live in rural and remote locations. We are happy that local people got involved and made the most of this opportunity. Congratulations to Stephen Needham for winning the Panasonic Toughpad and to everyone else who took the time to attend the workshops and learn new skills.” Mr James says