Community
2 May, 2026
Roy’s legacy lives on with new defibrillator
A new publicly accessible Automated External Defibrillator (AED) has been installed in Yanderra,
A new publicly accessible Automated External Defibrillator (AED) has been installed in Yanderra, marking a significant step forward in community safety and emergency preparedness across the Wollondilly region.
Guests at the recent unveiling included Member for Wollondilly Judy Hannan and Wollondilly mayor Matt Gould.
The AED has been installed outside the home of local resident Dennise Hanmore in honour of her late husband, Roy, who tragically passed away following 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,” Dennise said.
“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 was generously donated by Bargo Sports Club and forms part of the broader Heart Safe Wollondilly initiative, delivered in partnership with the Wollondilly Business Chamber, Wollondilly Shire Council and local volunteers.
Wollondilly Business Chamber President Pania Gregson said the initiative was 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,” Pania 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.”
Two publicly accessible AEDs were installed two years ago on the main street of Picton by the Chamber.
The project was initially the brainchild of former President and Life Member, Geoff O'Brien and was the start of the Chamber's AED commitment in Wollondilly.
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
- Familiarise themselves with AED locations across Wollondilly
Mrs 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,” Mrs Hannan said.
“What we’re seeing through Heart Safe Wollondilly is a community stepping up - making sure these devices are visible, accessible and ready when they’re needed most.
“It’s about empowering everyday people to act with confidence and ultimately saving lives.”
Denisse considers the Yanderra installation a lasting tribute to her late husband – 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.”
Mrs Hannan said she was honoured to be invited to the unveiling and congratulated Denisse on her determination to make the project happen.
“It was wonderful to honour Roy's legacy, acknowledge this generous contribution, and learn how this life-saving device can make a real difference when every second counts,” she said.
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