BRISBANE, Queensland, June 11 -- Queensland Police Service issued the following media release:

Australian Red Cross Lifeblood has launched its annual Emergency Services Blood Drive, calling on police, ambulance, fire personnel and emergency services members to take part in a friendly competition aimed at boosting blood donations nationwide.

The three-month campaign, running from June 1 through to August 31, challenges emergency services across the country to get involved and highlights the urgent need for plasma, blood and platelet donations.

Among those involved in the challenge and donating to the cause is Senior Constable Karen Watson, who celebrated a significant milestone, having marked her 450th donation.

Senior Constable Watson h...