Lifeblood spokesperson Shae Burns said said Christmas was the season for giving, and there was no better gift than life.

More news:

"Donating blood only takes an hour of your time, but for a patient, it's life-changing," she said.

"That change may be a second chance, the key to a fuller life, or perhaps, it's more time with family and friends.

"Blood is needed somewhere in Australia every 18 seconds to help cancer patients, pregnant mums, trauma patients, and many more."

The Bendigo Donor Centre needs just over 280 people to donate between December 24 and January 4.

Ms Burns said there was no substitute for blood, and a particular component called platelets only lasts for seven days.

More news: Central Goldfields Shire funding boost for community groups

"Our message this Christmas is: 'Don't just give something. Give everything.' Donate blood and you can help to save up to three lives," she said.

"With many donors expected to celebrate Christmas with family and friends, and perhaps taking the opportunity to travel, the supply of platelets is a particular concern.

"It takes four blood donations to make just one bag of platelets, which plays a vital role in clotting and cancer treatment. We need a constant, fresh supply across the holidays to meet the needs of patients."

During December, Ms Burns said donors will receive a 'Gift of Life' gift tag to either 'gift' their donation to someone this Christmas or to encourage others to roll up their sleeves.

Other news:

"Blood donation is one of the greatest gifts you could give. It's free, heartfelt, and it's not just for Christmas - we'd love to see these Secret Santa's back throughout the year, because the need for blood never stops," she said.

The Bendigo Blood Donor Centre is located at 6-8 High St, Bendigo and is open:

To book a donation visit lifeblood.com.au, call 13 14 95 or download the free DonateBlood App.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: