ASC staff member designs blood donation bandage

24 July 2024

The work of former Aussie boxer, Indigenous artist and Australian Sports Commission (ASC) staff member Brad Hore will soon be on the arms of blood donors across the country.

Brad Hore with his bandage designed as part of Lifeblood's True Colours campaign. Photo: Glenn Hunt

Hore, a Dunghutti man who works as an Indigenous Liaison Officer, has partnered with Lifeblood to design a limited-edition bandage that acknowledges the life-changing impacts of a community of giving.

“It’s an honour to partner with Lifeblood and recognise the giving nature of every person who walks through the doors of donor centres to save the lives of others,” he said.

Hore said the bandage artwork also paid tribute to all those who have “encouraged mob and community to give back and believe in something bigger.”

“It represents those coming to give blood and the transfer and gift of life itself. With the support of community behind us, we are capable of anything, including saving the lives of others.”

Hore turned to art during the COVID-19 pandemic when lockdowns prevented him from returning home to Country  in 2020 and became a way to provide focus and connect to Country.

“During COVID and the passing of my father, I used painting as a self-care tool. It helped with my mental health and ways to express myself,” he said.

“I hope that donors who wear my bandage will feel proud to be a part of a community that is connected, appreciated, and honoured for what they each contribute.”

Hore was joined by members of the ASC donation team at the Canberra Civic Plasma Donor Centre to unveil the bandage which will be given to blood and plasma donors between 29 July and 8 September.

The ASC donation team has 49 registered and active donors who made 140 donations in the last financial year.

“We are proud of our donation team who have so far helped save 420 lives and we look forward to continuing to support Lifeblood and the wonderful lifesaving work they do for our community,” Executive General Manager Diversity, People and Culture Bianca Broadhurst said.

“Brad’s work is well-known across the ASC and wider sport sector having created our First Nations Artwork Kinship which highlights the role sport plays in the lives of all Australians.

“A huge 36x8 metre version of the artwork is on display in the Strength and Conditioning Gym at the AIS which helps all athletes and staff feel a sense of belonging when they visit the campus.”

The limited-edition bandage will be available to anyone that donates blood and plasma between 29 July and 8 September.

With the cold and flu season well underway, Lifeblood is calling for more Australians to roll up their sleeves to help keep the nation’s blood supply stable.

“If you have been thinking about donating, now is the time to make an appointment and join this all-important community of blood donors,” Lifeblood’s Executive Director Donor Experience Cath Stone said.

To book a donation call 13 14 95 or book online at lifeblood.com.au, opens in a new tab or on the DonateBlood app.