The blood drive started today (1 July) and runs for three months. During that time, staff from both councils will be joined by community members in a big effort to collectively donate as much blood and plasma as they can.
AlburyCity Chief Executive Officer Frank Zaknich was looking forward to getting behind the blood drive, marking the occasion with his 71st donation at the Albury Donor Centre.
“I’m proud to be joining colleagues and community members for this year’s Local Government Blood Drive. Donating blood is a small act that can make a profound difference to someone’s life,” Mr Zaknich said.
“Council is proud to support this important initiative once again. It’s a simple but powerful way for our team to give back to the community, and I encourage others across our region to get involved - especially if they’ve never donated before.”
Wodonga Council Chief Executive Officer Matthew Hyde encouraged his staff to get involved, as every donation makes a life changing difference to patients in need.
"Wodonga Council is proud of its 15-year partnership with Lifeblood, and we are pleased to have our team participate in this worthy cause via our corporate volunteering program," Mr Hyde said.
"Through the blood and plasma donations made by Wodonga Council's team, the work of our staff has saved 66 lives this year."
Lifeblood is hoping more than 6,600 donations will be made nationally throughout the Local Government Blood Drive before it wraps on 30 September.
Last year locals clocked up almost 80 donations. With one donation saving up to three lives - up to 240 lives were saved.
Lifeblood spokesperson Shae Burns said local government organisations always come together to show they are the heart of our community.
“We know both councils have many incredible donors already and we look forward to welcoming first-time donors who are inspired to donate as part of this blood drive too,” Ms Burns said.
“New blood donors are always needed, especially during winter.
“At this time of year many of our regular donors are sick with colds and flu, but the need for blood doesn’t stop,” she said.
The demand for blood products is increasing as the population continues to grow. Every week, Lifeblood needs 33,000 blood donations to meet patient needs.
Cancer treatment, emergency surgery, road trauma and bleeding during childbirth are some of the most common uses for donated blood in Australia.
“With one in three people needing blood in their lifetime, you never know when it might be a family member, a neighbour or someone from your community who needs it,” Ms Burns added.
“Every drop counts and all it takes is an hour of your time.”
To make an appointment to give blood call 13 14 95 or visit www.donateblood.com.au
You can also book via the Donate Blood app.
More than 90 donations are still needed in Albury in the next two weeks to meet demand.