In late 2022, the North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club formed a Lifeblood team in partnership with the Red Cross donor centre. Community involvement is a key focus of the club, and the Lifeblood Team was seen as a perfect fit alongside other initiatives. Starting with 15 members in 2022, the team had grown to 25 participants by 2025, with a mix of long-term donors and newcomers.
After refining their approach in 2024, the Sinkers achieved a personal best with 98 donations, helping to save 294 lives in need of blood products. This accomplishment placed the club among the top donor groups in Mackay. State-wide, the club ranked 2nd in Queensland out of 81 clubs in the 1–99-member category, and nationally, they secured the #6 spot out of 239 clubs in the same category.
The Sinkers are proud of their members' ongoing commitment to this vital cause, as donating blood or plasma requires time and dedication.
A Lifeblood Team allows friends, colleagues, teammates, and communities to unite and give blood. Nothing beats the feeling of saving lives together, whether you’re part of a large organisation, small business, university, sports club, social club, or simply a group of friends.
Want to know more? Call 13 14 95 to speak with the friendly Red Cross staff.
And, of course, the Sinkers love to swim! Their fun short course event will take place on Saturday, February 22, and is open to all swimmers 18 years and over.
For further information, visit www.facebook.com/NthMackaySinkers
Contributed by Dan Stampa
Megan Taylor (Club Secretary) has recommenced valuable donations after a long break
Rachel Mundy (Club President) has also joined the team to help out
(L-R) Megan, Mary and Rachel. Mary has been a volunteer at the red cross blood service for over 30 years and is happy to share the history of the service in Mackay. Photos supplied
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