Call for locals to roll up their sleeves as cyclone approaches Queensland

The organisation said it had been forced to close 22 donor centres across Queensland and northern NSW due to the cyclone, resulting in a shortfall of more than 1000 blood and plasma donations a day.

“Lifeblood is urging the people of Shepparton and surrounds to step up and donate blood or plasma in the coming days and weeks if they can,” Lifeblood spokesperson Emily Garland said.

“The impact of the closure of some of Queensland’s biggest blood collection centres means we are relying on donations from other states.

“We know the local community is incredibly generous.”

Ms Garland said more than 40 appointments to donate blood and plasma were available at the Shepparton donation site in the next seven days.

According to Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, additional blood supplies were pre-emptively sent to hospitals in areas that may be affected by the cyclone to counter any possible impact on blood delivery services.

“We’re a national organisation and can move blood around as needed, but we can’t replenish stocks without people donating,” the organisation’s executive director of donor experience, Cath Stone, said.

“There may be people out there thinking, 'How can I help?’ Donating blood ensures that patients in these communities get the medical treatment they need.”

To book a donation call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com.au or download the Donate Blood app.