Tamworth defence force personnel to support Australian Defence Force blood donation challenge through Red Cross Lifeblood

Red Cross Lifeblood's annual nationwide Defence Blood Challenge launched on Tuesday and will run through to December 8.

A bunch of Tamworth's 12^th/16^th Hunter River Lancers and local defence force members are set to roll up their sleeves for the competition once again, and Major Wayne Clarke said they're out for blood.

"In the army, we train to win ... we'll be encouraging people to turn up and do their best," he told the Leader.

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Major Clarke said this year has been a home battle for many army reservists, some of which have helped out with the bushfires and COVID-19 response.

"A big reason people join the Army Reserve is to do something for their nation, and this year we will do something for the community," he said.

Injuries requiring blood transfusions may come with the territory in war, but Major Clarke said it's still critical for people to donate for the local community, if they can.

"We have an important role to play back home because people continue to have car accidents or require operations and the general ups and downs of life, and we have a duty to contribute to that cause," he said.

The Australian Red Cross Lifeblood Defence Challenge comes at a time when donor centres are in need.

A Lifeblood spokeswoman said Tamworth is a key location, which needs extra donors to fill in upcoming appointments.

About 31,000 donations are needed every week across Australia to help patients in times of trauma, major surgery, cancer treatment, pregnancy and a host of other situations.

Locals who have recovered from COVID-19 are particularly encouraged to donate, because their antibodies needed to treat seriously ill patients can be part of two clinical trials.

So far, 16 donations from Tamworth COVID-19 survivors have been collected for the trials.

To make an appointment to give blood or plasma call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com.au or download the Donate Blood app.

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