Local firefighters’ milestone donation

AN Aireys Inlet firefighter has rolled up his sleeve for the first time as part of the 2023 Emergency Services Blood Drive.

Last Saturday, CFA member Andrew Wilson made his debut blood donation after being inspired by his wife.

“I’ve wanted to do it for a long time, so I thought it was time to step up and do it myself and take part in the drive,” he said.

The emergency services blood drive is held by the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood each year, with the CFA rallying its 52,000 members to take part.

Mr Wilson likened the blood drive to his experience as a volunteer firefighter.

“It’s another way to give back and another way to help people,” he said.

“It’s pretty neat, you get a text message a few days after your donation, and it tells you where your blood has gone – mine was sent to the Mornington Peninsula.

“It’s an extension of what we do at CFA, while it might not be in our direct community, it’s still helping others.”

Mr Wilson encourages anyone who can donate to start the process as soon as possible, ensuring the process was a lot quicker than he expected

“It’s easy – just do it,” he said.

“Aside from the interview beforehand to determine your suitability, the actual blood draw took them less than 15 minutes.

“You get a milkshake at the end, which is something to look forward to, but it’s super-easy and probably sounds a lot scarier than it actually is, so pull together and join in the cause.”

The Red Cross Emergency Services Blood Drive runs from June 1 to August 31.

For more information, head to lifeblood.com.au.