This month the Red Cross Bathurst Mobile Donor Centre is parked near Bunnings Warehouse in an effort to collect more blood at a time when supplies drop.

Registered nurse Therese Goodacre said there are always shortages over winter as regular donors tend to be away or unwell.

“We always do well in Bathurst, but we do see a drop during winter,” she said.

Blood collected from the blood mobile is used predominately for cancer patients who are undergoing chemotherapy, but it is also used in trauma situations.

Donating through the blood mobile takes approximately one hour, with the amount collected able to help three people.

Ms Goodacre said the main requirements that make someone eligible to donate is being 16 years of age or older and being fit and healthy at the time.

“If people have any concerns about medication or underlying conditions, they can ring our call centre on 13 14 95 to find out [if they are eligible],” she said.

At the blood mobile, donors are asked to fill out a questionnaire, participate in a brief interview and then go into the chair for the procedure.

Approximately half a litre of blood is then collected.

Ms Greenacre understands people who have never donated before are nervous, but said the nurses do their best to keep everyone comfortable.

“I think walking through the door for the first time is the hardest part; after that it is easy,” she said.

On Monday, Eddie Costello visited the blood mobile to give his 25^th donation.

He said the knowledge of what his blood can do for another person is what keeps him coming back.

“You see it in the news every day, people in emergencies and having operations, so it is good to know you could be helping them out,” Mr Costello said.

He encouraged people thinking of donating to make an appointment.

The blood mobile will remain at Bunnings Warehouse until Wednesday afternoon.

Visit www.donateblood.com.au/blood-donor-centre/bathurst-mobile-donor-centre-bunnings for times and to book.