General News
5 June, 2026
Students urged to ‘rock the chop’
STUDENTS across the district are being urged to cut, colour or grow their hair and raise funds for cancer research.
Cancer Council Victoria earlier this week launched its Ponytail Project.
The school-based fundraising initiative invites students to take a bold step for a powerful cause, growing their hair, fundraising, and committing to making the chop at school or at home.
In the last year alone, more than 2000 young Australians rocked the chop to raise over $1.4 million for those impacted by cancer.
Cancer Council Victoria head of individual giving, Natalie Gibbs, said the program gives young people a meaningful way to take action while building important life skills.
“The Ponytail Project is more than just a haircut, it’s a movement driven by courage, compassion and community spirit,” Mrs Gibbs said.
“It empowers students to step beyond the classroom and take real action for a cause that impacts so many families.
“When students shave or cut their hair they’re showing real courage, and turning that courage into support for families impacted by cancer.”
Mrs Gibbs said the Ponytail Project gives schools a powerful way to channel the energy and enthusiasm shown by students for the project.
Schools interested in taking part are encouraged to register at ponytailproject.com.au.
The program is designed to be flexible, allowing schools to take part in a way that suits their community, whether through whole-school events, year-level challenges or individual students taking on the challenge themselves.
Participating schools will receive helpful resources and support, including educational materials, fundraising tools and practical guidance to ensure the experience is engaging, inclusive and age appropriate.
