It’s been at least a decade since any of them have had a haircut.
Now mates, John Crozier, Lucas Paladino and Jarrod McQuade, are about to lop off of their prized dreadlocks in the name of mental health.
Through their fundraiser, Cut the Dread, they aim to raise $20,000 for Youth Live4Life.
It’s a big move for the trio who grew up together in Woodend and have become known for their hair … but all for a good cause.
“It’s just a hairstyle but it’s definitely defined who we are. It will be a bit of a shock to the system,” Jarrod said.
“We wanted it to be for a good cause and the first idea that came up was mental health.
“It’s an important discussion. If people break their arm or leg, they get it fixed, but if people have mental health concerns it’s not always spoken about.”
Growing up in a regional area and working as tradies, the young men felt they ticked a lot of boxes for at-risk groups and wanted to set an example.
“We want people to know that it’s okay to talk about mental health and that there are resources available,” Jarrod said.
“People need to know that, whatever they are going through, they don’t need to do it alone.”
Their chosen organisation, Youth Live4Life, is a non-profit that began in the Macedon Ranges and now supports young people right across Victoria.
Live4Life is the only mental health education and youth suicide prevention model designed specifically for rural and regional communities.
It delivers teen and accredited youth mental health first aid training in schools and the wider community, create local partnerships to lead conversations about mental health that reduce stigma, and promote young leaders as mental health ambassadors.
The trio began a GoFundMe page and have already raised $6000 toward their $20,000 target.
The dreadlock shave will take place at the Full Moon Saloon, Woodend, at 1pm on Saturday, November 19.
The event will include hamper prizes (donated from local businesses), live entertainment, silent auctions, and food and drink.
To make a donation, visit: gofundme.com/f/cut-the-dread
