Defence onboard in blood donation push

Defence personnel from HMAS Stirling led the charge in donating blood in Rockingham last week in a nationwide push to save lives.

The 2016 Defence Blood Challenge urges navy, army, air force and Defence personnel to donate blood between September 1 and December 8.

Fifteen Defence personnel donated blood in Rockingham last Thursday and Friday.

Australian Red Cross Service community relations officer David Favory attended and spoke about the importance of donating blood.

He said every donation helped to save lives.

Blood Service spokesperson Jessica Willet said she hoped the local community would follow the lead of HMAS Stirling personnel.

“This month, we still need 360 people to donate blood at Rockingham Donor Centre, with appointments on some days less than half full,” she said.

“Every donation helps to save three lives, including the lives of cancer patients, unborn babies, trauma victims and even Australian Defence Force military members.”

To make an appointment to donate, visit donateblood.com.au or call 13 14 95.