Volunteer motorcyclists play key medical role during pandemic

A group of volunteer motorcyclists have played an unexpected but important role throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, delivering blood and important medical supplies free of charge to all corners of the country.

Inspired by a similar movement in the UK and Ireland, Bloodbikes Australia was founded in 2019 by retired bus driver, Peter Davis. He learned of the initiative from a friend who had volunteered for Bloodbikes Scotland.

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The concept is simple: a group of volunteers use motorcycles to deliver blood and medical supplies free of charge, ultimately freeing up time, money, and resources for healthcare providers to focus on other tasks.

Since its conception, Bloodbikes Australia has built an army of more than 463 volunteers in all states and territories of Australia. The organisation made 2239 pick-ups and deliveries between September 2019 and September 2021, helping 43 healthcare providers across the country.

While delivery of blood was the original mission, the COVID-19 pandemic has forced the organisation to adapt and take on a number of roles. As well blood, deliveries have included biopsies, COVID-19 tests, clinical trial program tests, paperwork and files, as well as personal items left behind by discharged patients, medical consumable for in-home patients, and stem cells.

With the pandemic resulting in more people at home, and a growing preference for home medical treatment, the role Bloodbikes Australia has become even more important.

By delivering medicine, equipment, and consumables to patients at home, it creates a safer environment and prevents the need for unnecessary travel for both patients and healthcare professionals. This situation allows healthcare workers to focus their attention on patients that need daily hands-on care.

“The gratitude expressed by both patients and medical staff is amazing,” said Davis. “It’s unbelievably rewarding to be able to offer this service for free.”

However, despite the organisation's success, Davis says there is still progress to be made in getting more healthcare providers to recognise the benefits of a service like Bloodbikes.

“Our challenge now is to get more healthcare providers to realise what we offer,” he said. “Critical to our operation is that we only offer services as a last resort. We do not want to interfere with commercial arrangements or anyone’s employment. But when all other options are exhausted we are available.”

Davis also wants to emphasise that Bloodbikes Australia does not endeavour to replace emergency services such as ambulance services. “We are not wannabe police or paramedics, we are not emergency vehicles,” he said. “We abide by all road rules and each volunteer gives up their own time, fuel, tolls and motorcycles, and has a certificate in blood transport.”

Rather than acting as an emergency service, Bloodbikes Australia operates as a ‘last resort’ delivery service for important medical supplies and blood.

Another unique aspect about Bloodbikes Australia is that it is not a charity and does not ask for funding or donations. Each volunteer looks after their own expenses and participates solely out of a desire to combine riding motorcycles with helping people.

“Motorcyclists love to ride,” said Davis. “And when we are able to do this and help others in a tangible way, it makes you feel like a million dollars.”

Prospective volunteers and healthcare providers wishing to make use of the service are encouraged to visit www.bloodbikesaustralia.org.au or email bloodbikersaus@gmail.com. You can also follow Bloodbikes Australia on Facebook.