A new outdoor SaveStation AED is planned for the Port Sydney Beach and Boat Launch in Huntsville following a community fundraising effort led by several local organizations.

The Port Sydney Firefighters Association, Stephenson District Lions Club, Dean’s Home Hardware, and the Mary Lake Association collectively donated $12,000 toward the project, which will fund the SaveStation cabinet, automated external defibrillator, and installation costs.

“Together, the Port Sydney Firefighter’s Association, Stephenson District Lions Club, Deans Home Hardware, and Mary Lake Cottagers Association raised a total of $12,000.”

The AED will be housed in a publicly accessible outdoor SaveStation cabinet, allowing year-round access at the waterfront location. Town staff noted the climate-controlled cabinet currently costs approximately $6,615, with the AED itself valued at roughly $2,295.

Town officials also outlined future monitoring and maintenance costs, including pad replacements and ongoing SaveStation monitoring after the first four years.

“These devices are strategically placed in public locations to aid in the event of sudden cardiac arrest.”

The Town of Huntsville currently maintains 13 AEDs across municipal facilities and public spaces, including one located outside the Algonquin Theatre.

The General Committee voted to approve the donation and proposed installation, with final ratification to follow at the next council meeting.