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Rotary Modbury and Golden Grove.

Emergency crews, Rotary Clubs and Bunnings unite for First Responders Day fundraiser across SA & NT

Rotary Modbury Golden Grove SA

To mark National First Responders Day, Rotary Clubs across South Australia and the Northern Territory are joining forces with Bunnings SA/NT and local emergency service volunteers for a region-wide fundraising event at Bunnings stores.

In a major show of community support, Bunnings SA/NT is collaborating with Rotary Clubs to host the event across its regional store network, bringing together local communities, emergency services and volunteers to raise funds for an innovative first responder safety initiative.

All proceeds from BBQ sales, raffles and donations will support the Rotary First Responder Mobile App project, being developed by the Rotary Club of Modbury Golden Grove Inc. The app aims to help police, firefighters, paramedics and rescue crews safely manage emergencies involving injured or distressed animals.

WHEN
Wednesday 28 October 2026 (National First Responders Day)
9am - 5pm

WHERE
All Bunnings stores across SA and NT.
The best media locations are Bunnings Mile End and Bunnings Parafield, where the most activity is expected. 

CFS, SES and other Emergency Service crews and vehicles will be at multiple sites across the state.

VISUALS AND INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITIES

  • Emergency service vehicles and crews meeting the public
  • Rotary BBQ fundraiser and raffles
  • Kids' colouring-in and in-store scavenger hunt
  • Interviews with project lead Alan Howard-Jones and app concept author Carol Frawley

WHY IT MATTERS
First responders regularly attend incidents involving animals, from overturned livestock trucks to trapped wildlife and pets guarding injured owners. A 2015 survey found more than 80% of Australian responders had no formal large-animal rescue training. The app will give crews practical, species-specific guidance so they can make safer decisions and reduce injury and trauma.

MEDIA CONTACTS
Please call Alan to confirm the best site for filming and photos so a spokesperson can meet you there.

Alan Howard-Jones
Club Project Lead, Rotary Club of Modbury Golden Grove
0431 522 253

Carol Frawley
App Concept Author, Emergency Services & Wildlife/Veterinary Liaison
Rotary Club of Modbury Golden Grove
0447 567 334

More information: www.rotaryfirstrespondermobileapp.org.au

ENDS