FIREFIGHTERS from the CFA’s Westernport Group, which spans from Frankston to Shoreham, have teamed up to make a mass blood donation. 30 volunteer firefighters donated blood in Frankston on 31 August. The donation was organised as part of Lifeblood’s 2024 Emergency Services Blood Drive.
CFA Westernport Group officer David Breadmore helped organise the event. He said “it’s fantastic to have so many volunteers representing brigades across the group.” “The team was drawn together by two of our firefighters, Ally Smith from Bittern, and Jonathan Rendell from Hastings,” he said. “We have volunteers here from Langwarrin, Baxter, Mornington, Hastings, Bittern, Red Hill, Crib Point, and Shoreham, as well as members from District 8 headquarters.”
Lifeblood Frankston Donor Centre manager Janet Brangsch said the group donation could help save up to 100 lives. “It’s incredible having the support from CFA and seeing the numbers rolling in, especially after having fewer donors through the centre due to winter illness,” she said. “A group donation of this size creates a real buzz in the centre and can have an amazing impact. Every blood donation will save as many as three lives, and plasma has 18 different life-saving treatments.” In total, 12 of the volunteers gave blood and 18 gave plasma.
To book an appointment to donate blood call 13 14 95 or book online at www.lifeblood.com.au.
First published in the Frankston Times – 10 September 2024