Corowa Lions Club president Barry Gleeson has bravely shaved off his hair and beard on Easter Saturday to raise funds for the Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation.
The “Shave Off” event, held in front of Memorial Plaza on Sanger Street, was a huge success, raising over $3200 with the final tally still to be confirmed.
Rachel May from Cutting Edge Hairdressing Corowa was on hand to shave Barry's head and beard, while Lion’s member adorned colourful wigs and costumes for the occasion.
Lions Club secretary Heather Leadbetter praised the event and the turnout from the community. "It was a fantastic morning with many locals and visitors out and about supporting the cause," Heather said.
Heather thanked Rachel, Beyond Balloons and Gyles Newsagency for the sponsorship of the event.
Barry, who had been growing his hair and beard for over a year, said that he felt different without his signature look but was thrilled to be able to support the club and the foundation.
"It's a great feeling to know that we are making a difference and contributing to such an important cause," he said.
“I said we’d have to raise $1000 before I would do it, and we’ve more than tripled it. I couldn’t be happier.
“It’s a bit cold and I’m conscious about getting sunburnt. Other than that, I keep forgetting I’ve done it.”
Barry also thanked the Lions Shave Off committee for putting the event together and all those who contributed to the fundraising effort.
The Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation is a non-profit organization that funds research into the causes and treatment of childhood cancers. The Corowa Lions Club has been a long-standing supporter of the foundation and regularly raises funds to support its work.