Port Macquarie in need of more blood donors for Australia Day

Port Macquarie Blood Donor centre is in need of around 100 donors to give blood between January 24 and 31, when appointments low, according to local Blood Service spokesperson Stuart Ward.

"Australia Day is the perfect time to give back to the local community, there's nothing more Australian than helping out a mate or three by donating blood," he said.

"To ensure blood is there when you or a loved one needs it, we need more Port Macquarie residents to sign-up as blood donors."

"We're particularly encouraging people who have never donated blood before to become a local legend in 2019 and trade places with our regular donors who are away around the Australia Day public holiday.

Fortnightly blood donor Ben Burley, one of 2800 donors in Port Macquarie said it took about half an hour to donate plasma, which stops people from bleeding and helps fight off viruses and bacteria.

"It feels fine, there’s a slight prick at the start then smooth sailing," he said.

"It's an easy way to help others who need it more than I do."

Demand for plasma is increasing by 11 percent each year, while demand for red blood cells from whole blood donations is falling, according to ARCBS statistics.

Fresh plasma is often used to treat major bleeding, treat shock and burns, fight infectious diseases, prevent blood clots and be made into vaccinations for diseases such as tetanus and chicken pox.

"With one in three Aussies needing a blood product in their lifetime but only one in 30 donating, there's never been a better time to donate blood," said Mr Ward.

"Blood donation takes just one hour - it's such a short time spent saving lives."

Appointments to give blood this Australia Day long weekend, can be made by visiting donate.blood.com.au or calling 13 14 95.

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