General News
16 August, 2024
BloodBank returns to Ararat
A campaign by East Grampians Health Service for the return of a blood donation centre to Ararat has paid off with confirmation blood donations can be made from next month.
A campaign by East Grampians Health Service for the return of a blood donation centre to Ararat has paid off with confirmation blood donations can be made from next month.
Australian Red Cross Lifeblood confirmed to the Advocate this week its mobile blood donor centre will visit Ararat in September, providing the local community with the opportunity to give blood and save lives.
The mobile donor centre will be in town from Thursday 26 September-Saturday 28 September.
Lifeblood Executive Director Donor Experience Cath Stone said Lifeblood heard the Ararat community’s plea for somewhere to donate blood closer to home.
“We are thrilled there is so much passion for giving blood in Ararat, particularly at a time when the demand for blood is the highest it has been in a decade,” she said.
“Donating blood is a kind and generous thing to do, and each donation can save up to three lives.
“This visit will be the start of a trial and we are hopeful local residents will embrace the opportunity to donate in big numbers to ensure we can keep returning.”
One in three people in Australia will need blood or blood products in their lifetime, with surgery patients, people injured in accidents, women having babies and cancer patients among the many patients in need.
A blood donation appointment takes around an hour, with the donation itself lasting just 5-10 minutes.
There will be 70 appointments available over three days.
“We are looking forward to coming to Ararat and encourage people to book an appointment now because they are likely to fill fast,” she said.
“We know some younger members of the community may not have had a chance to donate previously and encourage them to give it a try if they can. Why not bring along a mate to make it even more rewarding?
It has been almost 20 years since a blood donor centre was in Ararat.
The decision by the Red Cross follows several approached from East Grampians health Service CEO Nick Bush.
Mr Bush said he was delighted that the service was returning and has urged local residents to book in.
“The feedback I’ve had from the community is there a significant number of donors in Ararat so I would imagine the 70 spots will be filled quite easily,” he said.
“I’m really pleased we (EGHS) have been able to represent the community and get a much needed service here that helps the hospital in the long run by having blood to help injured and sick patients.”
Lifeblood’s mobile blood donor centre will be located at Ararat RSL carpark, 74-76 High Street Ararat at the following times;
Thursday September 26, 12:00pm - 5:30pm
Friday September 27, 9:30am - 5:30pm
Saturday September 28, 8:30am - 11:30am
The following visit is scheduled for January.
To book a donation, call 13 14 95 or book online at lifeblood.com.au or on the DonateBlood app.