Joondalup Residents Urged to Support National Blood Donation Drive
The City of Joondalup is calling on its residents to roll up their sleeves and contribute to a nationwide blood donation initiative, as the community strives to retain its position as Western Australia's leading local government for participation rates. This campaign, known as the Local Government Blood Drive, is currently active and will continue until June 30, offering a powerful opportunity to support hospitals, emergency services, and families across the state.
Leadership and Inspiration Behind the Campaign
Mayor Daniel Kingston, who made his first blood donation on January 1 this year, described the act as "the right way to start the year and do something meaningful for others." He expressed pride in the city's ongoing involvement, noting that donating blood had long been on his mind. "I'd heard the stats: one in three Australians will need blood in their lifetime, but only one in 30 donates," Mr Kingston said. His decision to book an appointment was inspired by Deputy Mayor John Raftis, who he saw with a bandage on his arm after a donation.
Councillor John Raftis, with over 150 donations since starting in 1987, found it rewarding to have motivated someone else. "I was inspired by my dad. He's approaching an incredible 500-donation milestone," he shared, highlighting a family tradition of giving back.
Impressive Statistics and Community Impact
According to figures from Lifeblood, Joondalup residents donate more frequently than the national average, with 3.09 donations per year compared to 2.84 nationally. The Edgewater Donor Centre set a national record in July 2022 for the most new donor appointments, following the lifting of restrictions related to time spent in the UK between 1980 and 1996.
In 2025, Lifeblood Australia experienced a record-breaking year, with 580,324 individuals donating blood or plasma, totaling 1,069,721 litres. With a donation needed every 18 seconds in Australia and each donation capable of saving up to three lives, the impact is profound.
Call to Action for All Residents
Mayor Kingston encouraged all eligible residents to get involved, whether they are seasoned donors or first-timers. "Every contribution counts toward our community goal," he emphasized. He urged participation in the City of Joondalup Residents Lifeblood Team, reinforcing the message of unity and support. "Let's roll up our sleeves to show how strongly Joondalup stands together," he concluded, underscoring the collective effort needed to maintain the city's top status in WA.
