The CSU Intercampus Challenge is a friendly competition between the University's campuses in Albury-Wodonga, Bathurst, Dubbo, Orange, Port Macquarie, Wagga Wagga and its regional study  centres with students and staff asked to donate blood to the Australian Red Cross.

Australian Red Cross Community Relations Officer Ms Cathy Chapman said the donations made over the last four years as part of the challenge have helped save 8 000 lives.

To foster the competitive spirit across the University both a Percentage Trophy and Most Number of Donations are awarded.

"Port Macquarie has held a strong grip on the Percentage Trophy since its beginning, but there has been quite a battle for the Most Number of Donations between Bathurst and Wagga Wagga, with Wagga Wagga finally snatching the trophy this year with a resounding lead of over 200 extra donations," Ms Chapman said.

CSU in Wagga Wagga Health Promotion Officer and organiser of the blood donation drive Ms Coleen Pearce said the Australian Red Cross blood donation drive was a fantastic way to build the community spirit across the University.

"As a regional University we want to encourage students and staff to build a University  community spirit," Ms Pearce said.

"The CSU Intercampus Challenge is a good way to build community spirit and communication as well as encouraging community involvement."