Harper Sercombe
Doreen Fire Brigade is rolling up its sleeves for this year’s emergency services blood drive.
CFA members are stepping forward as part of the annual Australian Red Cross lifeblood initiative.
Doreen Fire Brigade will have more than 10 members making contributions, ranging from regular blood donors to first timers.
Doreen volunteer firefighter Mark Jackson has been donating for years and said he will continue over the coming weeks.
“I’ve made 45 donations of whole blood and plasma to this point,” he said.
“I choose to give blood because I want to give back to the community in some small way, which is the same reason that compelled me to join CFA.
“Our brigade is very active and community-spirited, so it’s great to be able to do this together.
“Giving blood or plasma doesn’t cost me anything but an hour every now and then, if it’s saving lives and making a difference, then why not get involved?”
The drive kicked off on June 1 and will run through to August 31. One blood donation can save up to three lives and Australia needs over 1.7 million donations every year to meet demand.
Doreen captain Rob Bury said some members have people close to them who are regular recipients of blood donations, which serves as another motivator for Doreen brigade to get behind the initiative.
“We’ve got a great team who is motivating one another to get involved this year,” he said.
“Our brigade jumps at initiatives like this, it builds camaraderie and teamwork among our members, all while saving lives.”
“Why wouldn’t you take a little time to help somebody and save a life or two? As firefighters, it’s what we do, so this is another good deed,” Mr Jackson said.
