Students at Calrossy Anglican School participated in the World’s Greatest Shave on March 15, 2024, cutting and colouring their hair to raise funds for the Leukaemia Foundation. The event not only showcased the students’ dedication but also their commitment to supporting individuals affected by blood cancer.
The school’s Year 12 students led the charge, and the event featured a live auction that drew significant interest, contributing to the impressive total of $43,000 raised so far. School captain Bridie Yeo described the overwhelming support from the school community as “inspiring.”
“The World’s Greatest Shave has become such an important tradition for our graduating class,” Yeo said. “Seeing students from prep right through to Year 12 get involved—whether shaving, donating, or simply showing up in crazy hair—has been incredible. It shows how much our community cares about making a difference.”
The event was primarily organised by the senior Student Representative Council (SRC), with Stevie-Josephine Wilson-McKellar, an SRC representative, highlighting the powerful impact of the initiative.
“The dedication our school has towards standing up against Leukaemia reflects our generosity and a shared belief for those affected by this terrible disease,” Wilson-McKellar stated. “I’d like to express my gratitude to everyone who supported the event, whether a staff member, student, or a Calrossy family—our success today could not have happened without you.”
Another SRC member, Ella Tanna, who has personal experience with cancer, emphasised the importance of community involvement.
“The support has honestly been overwhelming,” Tanna remarked. “Every gold coin donation, every bid in the auctions, and every word of encouragement adds up. We’re proud to be part of something bigger than ourselves and to stand alongside those facing blood cancer.”
In addition to raising funds, students sold personalised encouragement cards to be delivered to local residents undergoing treatment at the Tamworth Cancer Clinic. These cards serve as a tangible reminder that individuals are not alone in their battle against cancer.
Principal Mark Lewis praised the event, stating it reflects the “heart” of the school community.
“Our Year 12 students are modelling what it means to lead with service,” Lewis said. “This tradition is about far more than shaving heads; it is about standing alongside those facing serious illness and showing that as a community we care deeply and act generously.”
Earlier in the week, senior students from Farrer Memorial Agricultural High School also participated in fundraising activities, sporting new haircuts as part of the Mullets for Men’s Mental Health initiative. This longstanding tradition between the Year 12 cohorts of both Farrer and Calrossy underscores a commitment to charitable causes within the community.
As the year’s events unfold, both schools continue to exemplify the importance of unity and compassion in addressing critical health challenges.
