EMERGENCY services are rolling up their sleeves all around Victoria in an attempt to save lives.
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The aim of the Emergency Services Blood Challenge is to "bleed by example" and encourage the public to give blood.
Police, firefighters, SES and ambulance members are competing to see which group can give the most blood.
The challenge began on June 16 and the tally for the winning emergency service will be totalled on August 15.
Bendigo police First Constable Matthew Beck was giving blood at the Bendigo Blood Donor Centre. He said he was inspired to give blood because his mother had died of leukaemia a few months ago.
Police officers said donating was pain free, and the helpers were "wonderful".
Senior Constable Brie Williams said the cause was worthwhile, because her father had recently been diagnosed with cancer and had been given blood.
Senior Constable Daniel Allen enjoyed giving blood because at the end the donors were given a free biscuit and a drink.
Blood service spokeswoman Shae Smith said every donation helped save up to three lives.
There's every chance the lives saved could be one of yours or that of a close friend or family member
- Shae Smith
"With one in three Australians needing blood in their lifetime, there's every chance the lives saved could be one of yours or that of a close friend or family member."
For more information, or to donate blood, call 13 14 95 or visit donateblood.com.au
The Bendigo Blood Donor Centre is at 6-8 High Street.
