The CSU inter-campus blood donation drive ran from March 1 to July 1 and involved all six CSU main campuses, including Bathurst, Orange and Dubbo.

The Australian Red Cross Blood Service’s John Feist said during the four-month period 925 donations were made by university staff and students.

“At Charles Sturt University in Bathurst alone we received 218 donations making it the second highest number across the university’s six campuses,” he said.

The Red Cross mobile blood unit will return to the Charles Sturt University campus in Bathurst for three days this week to accept additional donations.

The van will be located out side the gym on Village Drive.

This week, the Dubbo Blood Centre is 29 donations short of what is needed to support patients in need.

A number of appointments are available on Monday and Wednesday.

The Orange Blood Donor Centre is 40 donations short of what is needed.

Appointments are available on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.

Mr Feist said winter was a particularly challenging time for the Red Cross with more than 1000 appointments cancelled each week.

“Cold and flu season causes many to cancel their appointments, so we need as many fit and healthy people to step up and donate,” he said.

CSU Bathurst student liaison officer Scott Hatch said the inter-campus blood donation challenge had become an annual event that helped connect the university with the community.

“To participate in the challenge, staff and students should register as a member of the ‘CSU Bathurst’ Red25 group,” he said.

To book an appointment call 13 1495 or go to www.donateblood.com.au.