Irymple brigade drives up blood donations in Mildura

Irymple Fire Brigade Volunteer Dave Screaton rallied his fellow volunteers with CFA making 14 donations at the Mildura centre, including six by first-time donors. 

The 2024 blood drive is Dave’s first year donating to the cause. Previously, he didn't meet eligibility requirements because he was born during the mad cow disease outbreak in the UK. 

Since the lifting of restrictions Dave’s taken no time to book in to give blood. 

“I wanted to help Australians who need blood and I plan to give blood now as long as I can,” Dave said. 

“My wife also joined our team. Anyone who can should give blood because there is someone out there who needs it.” 

Dave admits that there is a little local interagency rivalry driving his passion. 

“We all get along well with our agency colleagues, but I’d love to beat Victoria Police to the top of the tally,” he said.  

Ashleigh Hales, Group Account Manager for Mildura, said Dave’s influence has been nothing but positive for the centre. 

“The Sunraysia area has experienced its most successful Emergency Services Blood Drive ever, both in terms of donations, new donors participating and community engagement,” Ashleigh said. 

“This success sets an encouraging example for the wider Mildura community and plays a small but vital role in maintaining Australia’s safe and stable blood supply, particularly important during winter when regular donor turnout may decrease due to illness.” 

Currently, CFA sits in third position in the national tally, with an impressive, 934 donations made – saving up to 2,802 lives in this year’s blood drive. 

There is still time to donate for the 2024 Emergency Services Blood Drive. You can find out more and register at lifeblood.com.au.