Goulburn-Murray Water staff have been donating to an important cause.
A group of G-MW staff across the business have been regularly donating to Lifeblood, and in 2023, the team managed a total of 114 blood donations.
G-MW asset planning manager Fiona Nioa has been donating blood for almost 20 years.
She said her reason for donating was logical rather than personal.
“For me, it is just such a simple thing that makes such a massive difference,” she said.
“It’s not painful, it’s just a matter of making time. I usually book in with the Shepparton centre, and they are always fantastic.”
G-MW asset strategy and engineering support manager Shayne Lowe is another member of the Lifeblood team who has contributed to the tally, having been inspired by his family and colleagues to donate.
“My dad would have given blood hundreds of times and has been a frequent donor his whole adult life,” he said.
“At G-MW, I joined a team with Fiona and several others who often donated, and that also encouraged me to keep making appointments and keep donating.
“I now have friends and family who rely on blood donations, so I’m really grateful to be able to do my bit. It’s a small commitment, but it goes a long way.”
G-MW also allows employees to take leave specifically to give blood to help incentivise staff to do so.
Lifeblood spokesperson Aania Tandon emphasised the importance of blood and plasma donation.
“Every week, Lifeblood needs 33,000 blood and plasma donations, and we see incredible donors come in all the time to help meet that demand,” she said.
“Blood and plasma donations help save thousands of lives. The need for blood never stops, and you never know whose life you might be saving.”
To book a donation or check if you can donate, call 131 495 or visit the Lifeblood website, lifeblood.com.au