She said news reports of multiple fatalities and injuries on the state’s roads prompted her to get up the courage to walk in the door of the Orange Blood Bank.

“It was all the horrible car accidents and I have never given blood before,” she said.

“I’ve got one of the O blood types so my type is pretty useful and I thought now was a good time to start.”

Mrs Hawke’s donation yesterday added to 730 individual donations through December. 

Blood service spokesperson Gail Turnbull praised the efforts of the Orange community because the centre was able to collect 105 more donations than expected.

The 449 full blood donations in Orange saved the lives of 1347 and 281 plasma donations saved 4777 people.

Mrs Hawke took her brave decision to overcome her dislike for needles all in her stride.

“I heard on the radio that there are 30,000 people a year injured in car accidents, with that many injuries I thought it is just time to do it,” she said.

As she geared up to get jabbed in the arm she hoped yesterday’s donation would the first of many.

“I really do hope it is something I can do regularly,” she said.

“As I am getting older the chances of me needing a blood transfusion are getting higher so I thought I should donate for others.”

Ms Turnbull said she was proud of Orange residents but stressed the centre was still in need of donations for patients who need regular treatment.

Plasma donations last five days.

To book an appointment to donate call 6363 4000.