Shepparton cops have helping save lives by donating blood.
On Monday, December 2, Shepparton police staff, including Sergeant Darren Wagstaff did their part and donated blood at the Shepparton Donor Centre.
There they were met by Simmo Braun, whose been going around the country donating at every Lifeblood centre as part of The Bloody Good Tour.
The group was there for Operation Bleed4Blue, an annual blood drive that was started after the stabbing of NSW Dectective Sergeant John Breda in 2018. Over 100 bags of blood were needed to keep him alive.
The initiative is now in its sixth year, and with demand for blood at a 12-year-high, Shepparton Donor Centre is calling for 200 blood and plasma donors every week this December, with the days between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve of the most critical need.
So far, the drive has contributed over 25,000 bags of blood.
“The need for blood never takes a break and donated blood will be required every day between now and Christmas to treat many sick and seriously ill people across Australia,” Lifeblood spokesperson Shae Burns said.
“December is the time for all of us to do what police do so well ‒ roll up our sleeves and lend an arm when it’s most needed.
“Whether you’re a police officer, or you know someone who has needed a life-saving blood product, or you just have some extra time in your day, find your reason to donate this holiday season.”
Operation Bleed4Blue runs from Sunday, December 1, 2024 until Friday, February 28, 2025 with all Australians encouraged to get involved and join Lifeblood and police officers across the country to ensure the blood supply remains steady for those in need.