June 9, 2026

Woopi Lions donate first ECG machine of its kind in local Health District

Lions Club of Woolgoolga President Joginder Garcha (left) and members Anne and John
Moon (front) celebrate the arrival of the new ECG machine with the Coffs Harbour Drug and Alcohol
team (L-R) Alexandra Jackson, District Director Clinical Service Delivery Nicky Smith, Registered
Nurse Danni, Jennifer Gallagher, Registered Nurse Nick, Dr Simon Beck and David Hedger (front
right).

DRUG and alcohol patients in the Mid North Coast Local Health District will now have access to a Single Digital Patient Record (SDPR) compatible electrocardiogram machine (ECG), the first for the Mid North Coast Local Health District, thanks to the Lions Club of Woolgoolga.

Methadone treatment can increase the risk of cardiac complications, with regular ECG monitoring providing a simple and effective way to detect problems early and ensure ongoing care.

Drug and Alcohol Nurse Unit Manager Alexandra Jackson said the team was excited to receive the machine.

“This is the first ECG machine of its kind in our district, and we are so excited to have it within our service,” she said.

“Knowing it will be compatible with the Single Digital Patient Record in the future is incredibly important as it will support better continuity of care for our clients.

“The ECG machine will enhance both patient outcomes and service delivery, allowing clients to be assessed on site, reducing delays and improving efficiencies with the healthcare provided.”

President of the Lions Club of Woolgoolga Joginder Garcha said the club was proud to support the initiative and give back to the community.

“We wanted to contribute in a meaningful way, and we know that drug and alcohol services can sometimes be overlooked when it comes to donations,” he said.

“It is a great feeling to help ensure these clients receive the best possible care during their recovery.”

By Andrea FERRARI

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