Locals Urged To Roll Up Their Sleeves

For Lifesaving Blood Drive

The annual Australian Red Cross Lifeblood Emergency Services Blood Drive is now underway, with Queenslanders urged to donate blood or plasma between 1 June and 31 August.

Fire, Ambulance, Police, and SES workers from across the state are leading the charge in this vital campaign, which provides a crucial boost to blood and plasma stocks over the winter months when many regular donors are sidelined by illness.

The Crisafulli Government is encouraging as many people as possible to get involved.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls and Member for Rockhampton Donna Kirkland launched the challenge by donating alongside paramedics.

“From patients facing cancer, to those undergoing heart surgery and those who have suffered severe burns – there are many situations and conditions that require blood and plasma donations,” Minister Nicholls said.

“I encourage as many Queenslanders as possible to roll up their sleeves and donate to the lifesaving Australian Red Cross Lifeblood Emergency Services Blood Drive.”

Ms Kirkland said the campaign hits close to home for many frontline workers.

“Our emergency services workers, who often face traumatic incidents that involve patients who will need a blood or plasma transfusion, are doing their bit and are donating as part of the drive,” she said.

“But you don’t have to wear a uniform to save lives. People like you and me can also roll up their sleeves and donate lifesaving blood or plasma.”

To book an appointment, visit lifeblood.com.au, call 13 14 95, or download the DonateBlood app.