SURF lifesavers are the lifeblood of any surf club in their efforts to save lives every day on our beaches.

But many of these unsung heroes are going one step further and giving their very blood in a bid to save even more lives.

Coolangatta's surf lifesavers, members, family and associates of the club rolled up their sleeves on Thursday for the launch of the Australia Red Cross Blood Service Surf Club Challenge, laying down the gauntlet by challenging their surf life saving peers on the Gold Coast to support the blood drive by giving their blood.

"We are asking all members to answer the call," said club president and donor Jim Purden.

"One hour of giving blood can save three lives.

"It's a vital gift to your fellow humans and falls in line perfectly with the surf lifesaving ethos."

Running until February 28, the Blood Service aims to collect 500 donations.

Surf Club staff, members and supporters are being asked to step off the sand and into their nearest blood donation centre.

The Surf Club Challenge 2012 will see Gold Coasters donating on behalf of their Surf Club to see who can save the most lives before the end of February 2012.

Each week over 500 donations are needed on the Gold Coast to help people with cancer, those needing surgery, burns victims, premature babies and mums-to-be.

"All Australians are being urged to place blood donations at the top of their New Year's resolution lists in 2012," said community relations officer for the Australia Red Cross Blood Service, Katie Hoy.

"With demand for blood and blood products expected to double in the next decade, Blood Service spokesperson Samantha Clifton urged more Australians to give blood.

"One in three of us will need blood in our lifetime yet only one in 30 donate," she said.

Coolangatta surf lifesaver Clarissa Sawney was the first to board the blood bus.

"What better thing can a human do than saving a life," she told My Daily News.

"It takes nothing to give your blood, yet it can mean so much."

To become a blood donor and support your local club contact the Blood Service on 13 14 95 or visit donateblood.com.au today.