Warrnambool’s Alan Pritchard and Georgia Koik are out to prove that age is no barrier to donating blood.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
At 79, Mr Pritchard is Warrnambool’s oldest donor and Georgia, 16, is the youngest and gave her first donation just weeks ago.
As Australia Day nears, the duo are encouraging others to make an appointment at the Warrnambool donor centre to beat a predicted blood shortage over the national holiday.
Mr Pritchard has been giving blood since 1993 and after more than two decades has no plans to stop.
Emmanuel College student Georgia said giving blood was an easy way to help others.
“A lot of people need blood and I’m healthy and able to give it,” she said. “It’s nice to know I’m doing something to help others.”
Blood Service spokesman Leigh Johnston said the Warrnambool centre needed 68 donations on or around Australia Day.
“Blood donation takes just one hour – it’s such a short time spent saving three Australian lives,” he said.
To make an appointment call 13 14 95 or visit donateblood.com.au
The Warrnambool Blood Donor Centre on Fairy Street will be open Australia Day from 9am to 4.30pm and Friday, January 27 from 7am to 2pm.