What started as a frightening emergency has turned into a story of community, compassion, and action — thanks to the generous support of Community Bank Cowes.
Last week, PI Tenpin Bowling & Entertainment Centre received a brand-new publicly accessible defibrillator and outdoor alarmed cabinet, fully funded and donated by Community Bank Cowes.
The lifesaving equipment will be installed between PI Tenpin and the adjacent 24-hour gym, where it will be available to the public 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
This donation comes in response to a traumatic incident that deeply affected the local community.
Just weeks ago, an 86-year-old man — a much-loved regular bowler — went into sudden cardiac arrest while playing at PI Tenpin. In those critical first moments, fellow patrons rushed to his aid and performed CPR until paramedics arrived.
Over the next two hours, more than ten emergency responders — including an air ambulance crew — worked tirelessly to stabilise him. He was eventually airlifted to hospital. Remarkably, he has since made an incredible recovery — discharged from hospital in late May.
In a heartwarming moment, he even returned to PI Tenpin last week to watch his team bowl on Thursday night.
The situation was a wake-up call.
"It was one of those moments that stays with you forever," said Craig Holmes, Managing Director of PI Tenpin.
"We all did everything we could, but there's no doubt that having a defibrillator on hand could have made a huge difference. We knew we had to act — not just for our venue, but for the whole community."
A proposal was quickly drafted and shared with local organisations, and Community Bank Cowes was the first to respond.
Thanks to the support of the bank's board of directors, including Vice Chair John Matthews, the full cost of the defibrillator, outdoor alarmed cabinet, and delivery has been covered. The unit will soon be installed and clearly signposted, bridging a critical gap in local emergency preparedness.
"We were proud to support this life-saving device in this accessible location," John Matthews, Vice Chair of the Board of Community Banks of San Remo, Cowes and Grantville commented.
"This defib can make such a difference in a life-or-death situation and gives the Cowes community peace of mind as well."
Vanessa Verzaci, Company Secretary to the Community Bank Board, said it was the 68th defibrillator the bank had placed in the community since 2013,
"From Grantville to Dalyston, San Remo to Cowes and many places in between, we're honoured to be able to do this. And it's all thanks to the support of our wonderful customers and their everyday banking — we couldn't do it without them."
PI Tenpin will take responsibility for ongoing maintenance, ensuring the defibrillator remains ready for use with monthly checks and timely replacement of pads and batteries. It will also be registered with
Ambulance Victoria, making it visible to GoodSAM responders and Triple Zero operators during emergencies.
"This is a gift that will never stop giving," said Jeremy Westaway, Managing Director of PI Tenpin.
"It's not about ticking a box — it's about knowing that someone walking by at midnight, or a young family visiting us on the weekend, could get the help they need in seconds.
"We're beyond grateful to John, the board, and everyone at Community Bank Cowes for making this possible. This defibrillator is for all of us."