Fraser Coast chasing top spot in national blood drive

Published on 21 April 2026

Fraser Coast Regional Council is in a tight race for top spot in this year’s Local Government Blood Drive, as Councillors and staff roll up their sleeves to help save lives.

As part of the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood’s national challenge, Council teams compete with other local governments to see who can contribute the most blood and plasma donations during the drive, which runs from 1 April to 30 June.

Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said Council was keen to build on the region’s strong track record in the national challenge.

“Fraser Coast took out the top spot in 2023 and 2024, and after finishing a close second last year to Tamworth, we’re keen to climb back to number one,” he said.

“There’s a bit of friendly rivalry with other councils, but the real focus is making sure patients have the blood and plasma they need when they need it most.”

Cr Paul Truscott said the initiative was a simple but powerful way to give back.

“Donating blood or plasma is something most people can do, and it has a direct impact on people going through some of the toughest times in their lives,” he said.

“Our team has already made 51 donations, helping save around 153 lives, so it’s a great start towards our goal of 250 donations by the end of the drive, up from 241 last year.”

The Fraser Coast team is currently sitting second nationally, just behind Tamworth Regional Council, with City of Gold Coast rounding out the top three.

Cr Seymour said the challenge also helped build a sense of teamwork and purpose within the organisation.

“It’s something our staff and Councillors can get behind together, knowing that every donation counts,” he said.

“While this is an internal challenge, the impact reaches far beyond Council. It’s about supporting patients, families and hospitals right across the country.”

Across Australia, a blood donation is needed every 18 seconds, with donations used for cancer treatment, surgeries, trauma care and childbirth.

Cr Truscott said the wider community could also play a role by donating independently.

“You don’t have to be part of the Council team to make a difference. Anyone who is able to donate blood is encouraged to book in,” he said.

More information about donating blood is available at lifeblood.com.au