The winners are those who need blood.

Wangaratta Sen-Constable Travis Carroll is promoting the Red Cross’ blood challenge among his colleagues.

“No one is exempt from an emergency — you never know when blood may be needed,” he said.

“Winter supplies are low and a donation is relatively painless and doesn’t take long.”

North East Superintendent Paul O’Halloran and Wangaratta’s Acting Inspector Garry Barton rolled up their sleeves yesterday in week three of the two-month challenge.

Red Cross urges the public to participate in the competition by specifying which group they support when they donate blood or plasma.

The challenge is nationally co-ordinated, but each state has its own competition.

Police are leading the Victorian challenge with 80 donations, followed by the Country Fire Authority with 44.

Red Cross’ Shae Smith said every donation could save up to three lives.

“With one in three Australians needing blood in their lifetime, there’s every chance the lives saved could be yours or that of a friend.

“The need for blood never takes a break.

“We need more everyday heroes.”

The challenge finishes on August 15.