FOR more than 50 years, Ipswich resident Greg Owens has been quietly helping save lives.
The lifelong blood donor recently celebrated an incredible milestone of 275 donations, while his son Rhys has gone even further, recording an astonishing 316 donations of his own.
Together, the Ipswich father and son have donated blood and plasma nearly 600 times, potentially helping thousands of Australians along the way.
Their remarkable contribution comes as National Blood Donor Week approaches from June 14-20, with Lifeblood reporting Ipswich is currently about 200 donors short of what is needed this week.
For Greg, who first rolled up his sleeve in the 1970s, the motivation has always been simple.
“It allows me to give back,” he said.
“We all have experience of family needing donations, and this is how we provide for others in need.”
Rhys said his earliest memories of blood donation were watching his parents regularly make appointments long before Ipswich had a permanent donor centre.
“Back then we didn’t have the permanent centre at Riverlink,” he said.
“It was just the blood donor van that used to pull up out the front of the old Coles in Ipswich.
“My mum donated blood for 40 years.”
His late mother, Hilary Owens, worked at Ipswich Hospital in rehabilitation and palliative care and remained a passionate advocate for blood donation throughout her life.
Today, every donation carries special significance for the family.
“Mum is no longer with us, so now we donate blood to honour her memory,” Rhys said.
The 36-year-old now donates every fortnight and has become one of the region’s most dedicated donors.
Greg said watching his son surpass the 300-donation milestone had been a proud moment.
Despite many Australians feeling nervous about becoming a donor, both men said the experience was far easier than people often imagined.
“It’s not scary. It’s not painful,” Rhys said.
“The staff are absolutely lovely, especially with first-time donors.
They make you feel comfortable and explain everything.”
With Ipswich currently facing a donor shortfall, Greg believes raising awareness remains crucial.
“Very important. We need
the message out there.”
For the Owens family,
it is not about milestones or recognition, but knowing a simple act can make a life-changing difference.
“Knowing that my donations help people in need,” Greg said.
For more information or to book a blood or plasma donation appointment, visit donateblood.com.au.
