By BRIDGET SCOTT
LOCAL emergency service workers have taken another step towards helping their community.
The group of community minded faithfuls have signed up for the Australian Red Cross Blood Service’s Victorian Emergency Services Challenge – an eight-week campaign to see who can give the most blood.
Police officers, fire fighters, paramedics, SES volunteers and emergency response workers have signed up to the challenge which started on 16 June and will finish on 15 August.
Unit controller from the Pakenham SES Andrew Graham said his crew members were keen to help.
“Volunteers ranging in age from 18 to 60 are getting involved, seeing giving blood as another way to assist not just the local community but also the Victorian community,” Mr Graham said.
“Being an emergency service, our volunteers have first-hand experience on how important donated blood is in keeping their fellow Victorians alive.”
Spokesperson for Australian Red Cross Blood Service Sarah Lacey highlighted the difference an hour of someone’s time can make.
“Every donation helps to save up to three lives,” she said.
“With one in three Australians needing blood in their lifetime, there’s every chance the lives saved could one day be yours or that of a close friend or family member.”
These everyday heroes took their responsibilities to a new level, with a group of SES workers from Pakenham donating on Tuesday night.
Ms Lacey said the need for blood never takes a break and it’s vital to find more people, like these emergency service workers, who will roll up their sleeves for a good cause.
Donations registered at donateblood.com.au/clubred will be added to each group’s tally.
To find the nearest donor centre and make an appointment call 131 495 or visit donateblood.com.au.
