In a powerful testament to grassroots advocacy, a local council has implemented life saving devices across its community – potentially saving countless lives from choking emergencies – following the compelling campaign of a heartbroken father.
Acampaign spearheaded by Perth local, Brian Bwoga, after a personal tragedy, has transformed local safety protocols and sparked a broader conversation about emergency medical interventions, by introducing a life-saving choking prevention device to the Joondalup area.
City of Joondalup Councillor, Rebecca Pizzey, also played a pivotal role in bringing the device – the LifeVac – to her community.
“I met Brian during my campaign, and I met his boys then, as well, whilst door knocking,” recalled Pizzey.
“After his son passed away in February of 2024 from choking, he came to me with LifeVac, and said, ‘I’d really like to see this everywhere.’”
The device itself is straightforward to use: a mask that seals around the mouth, attached to a plunger that creates suction to remove obstructions. Its patented one-way valve ensures that nothing is pushed further into the airway, a feature that sets it apart from other devices.
“I couldn’t believe these devices existed,” Pizzey said. “I had never seen anything like it, and I couldn’t see any downside to it.”
As part of his campaign, Bwoga reached out to local leaders, shared his story, and made the case for equipping public spaces with LifeVac devices. His efforts resonated deeply with Pizzey, a trained nurse herself.
Together, Bwoga and Pizzey put forward a Notice of Motion to the city council, requesting a report on the device and its potential benefits. The process, which can often be slow and bureaucratic, moved with surprising speed.
“I think it was within a year that council came back and approved it. So that was amazing, very quick for local government,” Pizzey said.
But the journey was not without obstacles. Some community members and even fellow councillors expressed scepticism, questioning the device’s safety and regulatory approval.
“There was a bit of resistance from community members who thought that because the device was not approved by the Royal Life Saving Society and other organisations like that, that it wasn’t safe to use,” Pizzey explained.
“But actually, it’s a Class A medical device. So, the Therapeutic Goods Administration approved it. It’s safe and easy to use, you don’t even need training.”
Bwoga’s advocacy was instrumental in overcoming these doubts. His personal story, combined with his determination, helped others see the urgent need for change.
“I think it’s just because Brian is so amazing at making everyone understand why it’s so important,” Pizzey said.
“He lost his son, and within a year, campaigned and got LifeVac in a number of councils, not just ours. We were the first one, so I’m thankful to him for giving me the opportunity to be involved.”
The result of Brian’s campaign was the installation of LifeVac devices across the council area – 32 in total, placed wherever there was an Automated External Defibrillator.
But for Bwoga, the mission was never just about a single device. It was about changing attitudes, raising awareness, and preventing future tragedies. To that end, he founded the Zaza Foundation for choking prevention in Australia, named in honour of his son.
“It’s a not-for-profit that he’s going to use to help educate people and to get LifeVac out there to all other areas,” Pizzey said.
Bwoga’s vision extends far beyond his own community. He hopes to see state governments adopt similar measures, ensuring that LifeVac devices are available in schools, hospitals, and shopping centres across the country.
“What I would like to see is state government take it up to make sure that they’re in our schools and hospitals and shopping centres. I don’t see any downside in it,” Pizzey said.
The impact of Bwoga’s advocacy is already being felt. Medical professionals, including nurses and first responders, have expressed surprise and enthusiasm about the device.
“I’ve been showing nurses at work, and they’re like, ‘This is amazing, why don’t we have this here in the hospitals?’”
For Bwoga, every LifeVac installed is a tribute to his son’s memory and a step toward a safer future for others. His journey from personal loss to public advocacy is a powerful reminder of the difference one person can make. Through his efforts, Bwoga has not only honoured his son but also given hope and protection to countless families.
As communities across Australia and beyond look for ways to improve public safety, Bwoga’s story stands as an inspiration – a testament to the power of turning grief into action, and the enduring impact of a father’s love.
