TWO brave Year 12 students at St Augustine's College, Augustine Heights, raised more than $1300 when they shaved their heads as part of the World's Greatest Shave.
Caitie Casa and Nicola Lees initially scheduled the shave for May but decided to bring it forward to bring a bit of positivity during these uncertain times.
Usually a large public event, the shave was instead live streamed to family and friends.
The students said the cause, which raises awareness and money for Cancer research, was deeply personal to both of them.
Nicola said it was something she wanted to do for quite a while.
“When I was young, I was diagnosed with a 1-in-10,000 disease that could have led to the development of leukaemia if not found.
“I never knew my Nonno (Italian grandfather) because he died of cancer and my mother had kidney cancer when I was in Year 6.
“Luckily, she did not require any chemotherapy.
“So, growing up, I had a few minor encounters with this disease."
Nicola said the final push to do the shave was losing her Poppa to cancer in early February this year.
“He fought so hard and his whole family was so strong, even right at the very end.
“We watched him conquer cancer twice and, for me, I felt I had to do something to honour him and honour all people and families who live with cancer." Nicola said.
Caitie also wanted to take part, moved by her childhood neighbour who shaved her head years previously.
“When Nicola told me she also wanted to do it, I thought it was the perfect opportunity.
“I was anxious about doing it and going against societal norms of what a girl 'should look like', but with Nicola there to support me, it was the right time.
In the end I became a closer friend with Nicola and have made a lifelong friend along the way." Caitie says.
St Augustine's Principal Graham Meertens said the whole college community was very proud of the two student leaders, with many staff and students supporting and donating to their cause.
“These young ladies are personifying our college value of caritas, which is to show love to others," Mr Meertens said.
“This small but very brave act has helped raise money towards the Leukaemia Foundation.
“We are proud of the excellent role models they are to our P-12 community." he said.