THREE years of growth has culminated with Nathan “Chuckie” Reilly saying goodbye to his signature dreadlocks.
The 16 year old lopped off his locks on Saturday in front of over 50 people at the Millicent Somerset Hotel as part of the Australian Cancer Research Foundation’s (ACRF) Cut or Colour, which funds research into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of all types of cancer.
Prior to the cut, Nathan said he looked forward to a fresh clean-cut look.
Alisha Bell from Kutz on Kentish was given the honour of completing the shave with the helping hand of family, friends and locals who made donations to cut a lock or two.
“I decided to get my haircut because I was getting bored with it and wanted to do something crazy,” he said.
“I thought it would be a good idea to do it for a good cause and not throw away the three and a half year journey, but instead finish it with something epic.
“I am happy to lose my dreadlocks because it is the end of a journey that was pretty crazy.
“It is definitely a big move to just shave your head out of nowhere and anybody who knows me knows that my hair means a hell of a lot.
“Most people don’t even know how I look with short hair.”
Nathan extended his appreciation to local businesses for their support and the community members who made donations.
A raffle was held throughout the three-hour event, as well as an auction, with all prizes donated by local businesses.
Master of ceremonies Mike Reilly was overwhelmed with emotion when addressing the crowd.
He commented on Nathan’s bravery in cutting his locks and raising money for the cause.
The Somerset also donated one dollar from every drink purchase.
Nathan originally aimed to raise $2000, however he believes he well and truly smashed his goal with collections still being tallied.
His mother Joylene, father Stork and sister Kcie expressed their pride in Nathan.
A number of donation tins were also left in Millicent businesses and were filled with money.
“My hair often sparked conversation with those interested in my wacky dreadlocks but now it’s going to bring people even closer,” he said.
“ACRF’s work is really important and I want to do what I can to help, but there is only so much I can do on my own.
“Any donation is a part of every donation.”
