Northern Vic Ammo Supplies in Tungamah has raised thousands of dollars for the Devenish and Dookie Good Friday Appeal.
The Raise and Shave event, held on Saturday, October 28, saw four staff members get their heads or beards shaved, along with one sales representative from TSA Australia and two customers.
More than 300 people attended the event and at the time of writing a total of more than $20,000 was raised.
Store owner Brett Ford had his head and beard shaved by Tungamah and Katamatite police officers, while Brett’s wife Joanne also had her head shaved once money raised reached $20,000.
Store worker Christopher McGregor said Mr Ford was inspired to host the event because of the upcoming summer.
“Brett decided to shave his head and face coming into summer. And he thought if we could raise some money, that would be great,” Mr McGregor said.
“It was a simple idea and became a great event.”
Mr McGregor, who shaved his beard, said it was a very different experience being clean-shaven.
“I have had my goatee since Year 7, so I’ve probably had my beard for 28 years,” he said.
Mr McGregor said the presence of the two police officers was a great addition to the day as it helped lift the negative stigma surrounding guns and those who own them.
Alongside shaving, attendees enjoyed live music, food and drinks and vintage vehicle displays, including Furphy tanks and A and T model Fords.
Mr Ford, who owns a Centurion tank, wowed onlookers with a display of the tank’s might as he crushed a vehicle.
There was also a raffle of more than 30 prizes and an auction with all money raised, along with cash from entry tickets, going to the Good Friday Appeal.
Josh Powell, an expert on Furphy tanks, demonstrated to attendees how to re-barrel a tank.
The store also had a sale to celebrate the event, with $5 from each purchase going to the appeal.
Mr McGregor, who admitted he was initially hesitant about shaving his goatee, said he was glad that so much money was raised for the appeal.
Event attendee Russell Felmingham was equally generous with his praise.
“It was a great community event and a big shout to Brett and Joanne, who do a lot for the community,” Mr Felmingham said.
All money raised will go to the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne.