A MIX of emotions, school pride and charitable spirit filled the air as 72 brave Carmel College Year 12 students took part in the annual Carmel Chop.
Aligning with the college’s 2024 theme of “Service”, where students show passion and compassion through selfless action, the inspiring seniors cut and donated their hair to a sustainable salon where it will be transformed into wigs for those experiencing medically induced hair loss.
On Monday, July 29, the students also smashed their ambitious fundraising goal of $25,000 spectacularly raising a remarkable $47,795 for Mater Chicks In Pink, a charity dedicated to supporting women diagnosed with breast cancer.
Student and event organiser Lana Harris said presenting the cheque to a Mater Foundation representative was a highlight of the day, adding that organising the Carmel Chop was an amazing experience.
“I was excited to see every detail come together, and it was rewarding to finally participate and see everyone’s happy faces,” Lana said.
“This event hits home for a lot of our students, raising money thinking of their loved ones that have passed or struggled with cancer.
“It also aligns with our school’s values, demonstrating how we come together to support those in need and put others first.”
Fellow student Jessica Rowntree dedicated her chop to her aunty, who has alopecia and has worn wigs since she was young.
“I know just how much more confident she feels, so to be able to donate just some of my hair to help people who experience hair loss is really rewarding,” Jessica said.
“I have learnt that things I take for granted, such as my hair, is something so important to others, so to be able to give it to someone in more need of it then myself was great.”
Jennifer Viegas raised more funds than any other student, gathering $6388 on her own, and said the Carmel Chop was something she had been looking forward to participating in since starting at the college.
“An event like the chop is very important to our students as it’s for an important cause and it’s also a big physical change for the people involved,” she said.
“It felt rewarding to have been given so much support, especially from the wider community when raising funds.
“It made me feel proud of myself and honestly very emotional that I had so many people in my life who supported me so much.”
Three teachers showed their support by participating in the chop, while nine local hairdressers volunteered their skills.
Assistant principal of religious education Krystyna Baldwin said the focus of the Carmel Chop aligned not only with the college’s 2024 theme, but also with the foundational principles of Catholic social teachings.
“We are very proud of our students in their efforts to organise the Carmel Chop and know that their fundraising efforts will make a significant difference in the lives of people with cancer,” Ms Baldwin said.
