CRAIGIEBURN and District First Response Team is hoping a new online donation service can be used to raise funds for a community ambulance headquarters.

In addition to responding to emergency calls, part of the unit’s role is to provide first aid training to the community. Team leader Casey Dunn said she hoped the online facility would attract new supporters and enable current supporters to give immediate financial support.

“The new headquarters is of vital importance, as it will allow us to throw open our doors and teach all of our community emergency first aid, free of charge,” Ms Dunn said.

Members of the Craigieburn Unit were at Willmott Park Primary School last week to discuss how the service operates and pass on life-saving advice.

Community Officer Jason Davis showed the children how the team treats patients and explained when it was appropriate to call triple zero.

The Craigieburn unit was the first of its kind when it started 14 years ago and now there are more than 30 units across Victoria.

The Craigieburn team is on call every night of the year and responds to about 350 calls each year.

For more information visit craigieburnafr.org.au