The Australian Red Cross Blood Service (ARCBS) is now one month into its annual Summer Blood Challenge with Police and Motorcyclists neck and neck on the official tally board.
The Summer Blood Challenge, which was launched by Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione earlier this month at the new Elizabeth St Donor Centre, is an annual competition between NSW/ACT Police and motorcyclists to see who can donate the most blood from December 2007 to 28 February 2008.
Now in its 16th year, the Challenge has collected over 30,000 donations. As each blood donation can help save up to three lives, this means that this friendly rivalry has helped to save as many as 90,000 lives. The Challenge boosts the blood stocks over the summer periods when they are pushed to their limits due to the holidays.
CURRENT TALLY BOARD FOR DONATIONS IN NSW:
POLICE – 900
MOTORCYCLISTS – 974
ARCBS NSW/ACT Operations Unit Manager, Garry Wolfe, said “It’s amazing what a little competition will do to bring out the best in our bikers and policemen and women.
“The good spirit in which this competition is embraced, by the bikers and police, has ensured its success and the continual growth of the Summer Blood Challenge when each year they get together and roll up their selves to help save lives,” Wolfe said.
After last year’s commanding win, the Motorcyclists have now won the Challenge two years in a row and the Motorcyclists now hold an 8-7 lead over their counterparts.
This year we are expecting the Challenge to be an extremely close contest. The Police are keen to make a strong comeback and bring home the Challenge. For the Motorcyclists it’s not only a chance to defend their title but an opportunity to take another step towards their aim of equalling their record four wins in a row.
Joined by a common cause the NSW Police and motorcyclists will combine forces to help their fellow Australians.
Do something special – give blood for your team this summer and help save lives.
Call 13 14 95 or visit donateblood.com.au to make an appointment to donate blood today.
