The high school has won the ACT Region Vampire Shield for 11 straight years and are 70 donations ahead with only three weeks to go in this year's competition.

Year 12 student Michaela Holden, 18, has already given blood.

She first donated blood when she was 16.

``In Year 10 nearly all my friends were involved,'' she said.

``The program teaches young people leadership.''

On her 18th birthday Michaela donated plasma.

Teacher Rose Potter is also a donor.

``The program at the school is great,'' Mrs Potter said.

``The students see it as a real privilege; at the end of the day they know they're doing something great and giving the gift of life.''

Queanbeyan High Vampire Shield coordinator Ian Crabb said there was plenty of goodwill among young Australians to commit to community service.

``Young people may not have the time, money or resources to commit to Meals on Wheels or financial contributions, but they are healthy and can save lives by giving blood,'' he said.

``There is no substitute for blood and blood products to save people's lives.

``Queanbeyan high's commitment to this most vital of community services, has challenged other schools in the region th especially Merici College and Karabar high to donate more blood in an effort to take the Vampire Shield title from Queanbeyan High.''

Mr Crabb said the students' success had brought a lot of positive publicity to the school with new staff and parents inspired to become donors.

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