Bank wins Red Cross blood challenge

Bendigo and Adelaide Bank has won the club:red Corporate Challenge, an initiative of the Red Cross Blood Service which encourages Australian businesses to donate blood and save lives.

The Bank recorded the highest number of blood donations in 2014, for a medium sized organisation with 5000 to 10000 employees.

Managing Director Mike Hirst paid tribute to the Bank’s generous and community-minded employees.

"Our Bank is committed to being prosperous, healthy communities," he said.

"This ethos is embraced by our people, and their willingness to literally roll up their sleeves and give blood is yet another example of what makes our organisation outstanding.

"We are the highest ranking financial institution in the 2014 Corporate Blood Challenge - I think that means we officially have the biggest heart, and that’s a great thing for any organisation," said Mr Hirst.

Bank staff have been donating blood for years, but it’s the first year the company has entered the competition.

Mr Hirst said Bendigo and Adelaide Bank donors gave blood 1214 times in 2014, far exceeding its target of 1000 donations.

"The blood donated has the potential to save more than 3000 lives, with the blood and blood products used to help road trauma victims, cancer sufferers and many other people in our community," he said.

"We would like to thank everyone who generously donated their time and blood over the last year, and look forward to increasing our contribution to at least 1,800 donations in 2015."

The Bank is looking for more competition, with other businesses and community members encouraged to get involved.

To find out more about club:red and how you can donate visit http://www.donateblood.com.au/