Central Coast Council thanked the efforts of all blood donors and urged everyone to consider blood donation during National Blood Donor Week from 14 June.

Red Cross Lifeblood Service spokesman John Feist said blood donation centres follow strict sanitisation protocols, and that additional hygiene measures have been implemented due to COVID-19.

“Maintaining Australia’s blood supply is absolutely vital and helps save the lives of cancer patients, road crash victims, new mums and babies and many other seriously ill Australians,” said Mr Feist.

“Over the last 12 months blood donors on the Central Coast rolled up their sleeves almost 12,000 times to help save the lives of some of Australia’s most vulnerable patients.  

“In the last 12 months, Australia has faced unparalleled challenges, from devastating bushfires to the Coronavirus pandemic, yet one thing has remained consistent; the generosity of our donors.

“Whether it be rescheduling a donation, adjusting to new processes in our centres, or even changing donation type, our donors have continued to support us, support patients across the country and we cannot thank them enough,” said Mr Feist.

Central Coast Council continues to top local workplaces for donating blood at the Gosford Donor Centre. 

Council CEO Gary Murphy congratulated Council staff for their commitment to saving lives and encouraged other Coast employers and individuals to get involved and donate blood.

“I’m proud to be part of an organisation so dedicated to giving back to their community; giving blood, and plasma, is a simple process that can make such a difference in many people’s lives,” Mr Murphy said. 

“I encourage all Central Coast employers to get their staff involved, and anyone who can to make an appointment to donate blood and help save lives."

To find your closest donation centre, visit donateblood.com.au or call 131 495.

National Blood Donor Week commences on 14 June 2020.  For more information and sharing of stories of thanks to donors, go to lifeblood.com.au