CFA is encouraging its members and the community to roll up their sleeves to save lives for the 2024 Emergency Services Blood Drive.
The Blood Drive, held annually by Australian Red Cross Lifeblood from 1 June to 31 August, calls on emergency service workers to compete in a bit of healthy competition by providing the highest number of blood and plasma donations.
Today, CFA Deputy Chief Officer Garry Cook and Hillcrest Fire Brigade members Rochelle Poulton and Molly Drane joined the launch of the drive alongside our emergency service partners at the Melbourne Donor Centre.
Hillcrest Fire Brigade 4th Lieutenant Rochelle Poulton kicked things off by donating plasma today in the hope of rallying CFA members across the state to donate before 31 August.
"Each year when the blood drive starts I try to get a team together from my brigade to donate as it's another way we can give back to the community," Rochelle said.
"I try to donate plasma every fortnight because it's important to me knowing my contribution is something larger than myself and it's helping saving lives.
"I also receive a text message telling me where my blood is going and how many lives it's saving.
"My blood went all the way to Western Australia once, which is incredible and makes it a reality that people out there need your help."
Deputy Chief Officer Garry Cook said he hopes our members and the community can get behind the challenge this year to help save more lives.
"The need for blood is ongoing and one donation can save up to three lives so it's a small amount of your time for an incredible cause," Garry said.
"Our members are always great at rising to the occasion, so I encourage them to roll up their sleeves and donate before the end of August."
To book a donation, visit www.lifeblood.com.au, call 13 14 95 or download the donate blood app.
To find a donor centre near you visit www.lifeblood.com.au/donor-centre.
