Lifeblood bus a permanent fixture in Ararat

Australian Red Cross Lifeblood has announced that its Donor Mobile Unit visits to Ararat will become a permanent fixture.

The return of Australian Red Cross Lifeblood Donor Mobile Unit services to Ararat was initiated through the East Grampians Health Service Community Consultative Committee.

Made up of EGHS Board Directors, executive staff, volunteers and consumers, and chaired by Board Director Lisa Davidson, the committee advocated for the return of services, with EGHS Chief Executive Nick Bush then writing to the Australian Red Cross requesting the return of the blood bank to Ararat.

A trial Donor Mobile Unit visited Ararat in September 2024 and was booked out very quickly, demonstrating the interest in the region.

Lifeblood Donor Mobile Units have returned to Ararat on three occasions since.

In April this year the DMU collected 148 successful donations and in July collected 135 successful donations.

East Grampians Health Service Chief Executive Nick Bush praised the Ararat community for its support of Lifeblood.

“Thank you to all Ararat residents who have given blood at the Lifeblood Donor Mobile Unit that has visited Ararat,” Mr Bush said.

“Your blood donations are lifesaving and very much appreciated. We look forward to seeing the Lifeblood Donor Mobile Units returning to Ararat each year for many years to come.”

Lifeblood’s Donor Mobile Unit will return in October, with appointments from October 15-18. To book an appointment head to www.lifeblood.com.au.