Owen, who is the senior ranger at the Shire of Busselton, will be picking up his razor and calling for the clippers when he shaves off his 40 years of hair for the World’s Greatest Shave on March 12.

The last time his upper lip saw sunlight he was 18 (he’s now 58) and he has also accumulated more than 15 years of beard growth. And it just wouldn’t be the World’s Greatest Shave if he didn’t shave his head as well.

“My son and daughter, who are both grown up, and my partner Elizabeth have never seen my face underneath the hair,” he said.

“It will be as big a shock to them as it is to me, because only I know how ugly I really am,” he joked.

Owen’s reason for shaving it all off may be slightly different from the other participants, but he is pleased to be able to raise money for the Leukaemia Foundation.

“I was dared to do it by one of the other rangers (Nez Graue), when she found out how long it was since I last shaved. I don’t think she, or the rest of the rangers, thought I would take up the challenge, but that’s my stubborn streak showing through.

“I am primarily doing it for the dare, but it is also nice to be able to support an organisation like the Leukaemia Foundation.”

The Leukaemia Foundation, in WA, provides patients and their families with vital facilities and support including information, resources, education and support programs, transportation to and from treatment, accommodation in Perth close to major metropolitan hospitals, practical assistance and emotional support.

All of these services are provided free of charge by the foundation, in fact the Leukaemia Foundation is the only national not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the care and cure of patients and families living with leukaemia, lymphomas, myeloma and related blood disorders.

It receives no on-going government funding and it is only through the generosity of the public at events like the World’s Greatest Shave that it can continue to provide support to patients and families.

Owen’s initial goal was to raise $200, but he is already well past that mark and is now aiming to be able to donate at least $500.

To help Owen reach his goal call in and see him at the Shire of Busselton, or donate online at

http://my.imisfriendraising .com.au/personalPage.aspx?SID=913 83