ST JOHN’S Ambulance volunteers have treated more than 70 festival-goers in the past week, and with the bulk being heat-related, they’ve reminded everyone to keep cool on Australia Day.
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While scattered thunderstorms are predicted for Tamworth, the temperature is still expected to hit 34 degrees.
St John’s event manager Peter Cameron said he’s expecting a busy day for his volunteers due to the combination of Australia Day, the country music festival, the heat and the long weekend.
“We’re anticipating a big crowd, which means more presentations, so we’ll have extra staff roosted on and extra resources,” he said.
“We’ve seen an increase in presentations due to the heat. We’re use to seeing high temperatures, but not for this number of consecutive days.”
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Mr Cameron said a handful of the patients treated by St John’s volunteers have required hospitalisation.
“We’ve had the usual things, you’re trips, falls and minor wounds, but the main thing is dehydration and heat-related illness,” he said.
The St John’s volunteers can be found in Peel Street, Bicentennial Park, the TRECC and the West Leagues Club.
Anyone interested in becoming a St John’s volunteer can call 1300 360 455 or visit stjohnnsw.com.au.