Mo month project

Umina fire fighter Mr Shannon Dixon will be growing his moustache this month to raise money for depression and prostate cancer

He is taking part in Movember Central Coast, a fundraising event to be held at Woy Woy Leagues Club on Saturday, November 29, in support of Beyond Blue and the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.

"I chose to run the event because Movember was the first charity that I felt I could really relate to and have fun whilst doing it," Mr Dixon said.

"Being male and working in emergency services, prostate cancer and depression are two very real possibilities.

"Men lack awareness about the very real health issues they face.

"There is an attitude that they have to be tough - and are reluctant to see a doctor about an illness or go for regular medical checks.

"Movember aims to change these attitudes and make men's health fun by putting the mo back on the face of fashion and in the process raise some serious funds for key men's health issues."

Mr Dixon said other local fire fighters from Umina fire station would also be lending their support.

"We hope to make it a fantastic night," Mr Dixon said.

"We have already secured several guest MC's and are even working on a few surprise celebrities to help with the best mo judging section.

"We will have bands and DJ's for entertainment and plenty of prizes and give-aways, not to mention a fantastic sports memorabilia auction with some very rare items up for grabs.

"Every year 2900 Australian men die from prostate cancer (equivalent to the number of women who die from breast cancer annually) and over 18,000 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer.

"One in six men experience depression at any given time but most don't seek help."

Email, 4 Nov 2008 Shannon Dixon, Ettalong Beach