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At Hinterland Toyota, we believe in the power of community and the importance of giving back. That’s why we’re proud to announce our partnership with the Gold Coast Hospital Foundation in launching a new, life-saving Mobile ECMO Service, a project made possible by the generous donation from Sheila and Bernard’s Life Saving Medical Equipment Fund.
The new Mobile ECMO Service is centred around a brand-new Toyota HiAce Crew Van, expertly custom-fitted to accommodate critical medical equipment, including an ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation) life-support machine. This vehicle has been designed to transport a team of highly trained ECMO doctors and nurses travelling within a 300km radius, ensuring that the highest level of care can be delivered as swiftly as possible. For trips outside that radius, the vehicle will be used to transport the team and vital medical equipment to the airport if aeromedical support is required.
An ECMO machine, or Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation machine, is an extraordinary life support device that temporarily takes over the functions of the heart and lungs, allowing the patient’s organs to rest and recover. It can be used when a patient experiences heart or lung failure resulting from heart attacks or even bad cases of influenza.
“It’s amazing technology and saves the lives of patients who otherwise would have unfortunately succumbed to their illnesses. Having a new dedicated ECMO van is helping us reduce the time it takes to reach these critically ill patients. ECMO is often their last hope, and the sooner we can place them on ECMO support, the better their chances of survival,” said Dr James Winearls, Gold Coast University Hospital Intensive Care Specialist and ECMO Consultant. “Having a vehicle of this size and already on site enables us to reach patients as quickly and safely as possible.”
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The Toyota HiAce Commuter, known for its reliability and versatility, has been tailored to meet the specific needs of the ECMO team. This customisation ensures that the vehicle is more than just transportation; it’s a mobile extension of the intensive care unit, capable of delivering life-saving support when every second counts.
Hinterland Toyota is committed to maintaining the safety of the Mobile ECMO Service vehicle for the next three years, ensuring it remains in top condition and can be counted on whenever needed. This partnership is a commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of those within our community.
On behalf of Hinterland Toyota, Dealer Principal Ben Duncan, Group Fleet Manager Julian Rippin, and our Marketing, Communications, Brand & Loyalty Manager, Breeze Hue, had the honour of handing over the keys to this critical new vehicle at our Robina dealership.
“Hinterland Toyota is proud to support the Gold Coast Hospital Foundation and their incredible work with the Mobile ECMO Service. This partnership is close to our hearts, as it aligns with our core values of community support and making a meaningful difference. We are dedicated to ensuring that this life-saving vehicle is always ready to serve those in need,” said Breeze Hue.
We’re inspired by the work of the Gold Coast Hospital Foundation and the ECMO team and are honoured to be part of such a vital initiative. Together, we’re driving positive change and helping to save lives across the Gold Coast.
To learn more about the Gold Coast Hospital Foundation and the Mobile ECMO Service, click here.
