IN a powerful show of solidarity, compassion and action, 68 Year 12 students and four staff members from Carmel College Thornlands took part in the Carmel Chop, an annual fundraising event supporting Mater Chicks in Pink, a charity dedicated to helping women with breast cancer.
Now in its fifth year, the initiative saw students stepping up to chop or buzzcut their hair, raising over $44,000 through several weeks of baking sales, pizza days, sausage sizzles and personal fundraising efforts.
Students worked together to organise and run these fundraising days, showcasing their teamwork, dedication and advocacy for Mater Chicks in Pink.
Since its launch in 2021, the Carmel Chop has raised more than $165,000, funding life-saving equipment and support services such as wigs, mastectomy bras and scarves.
Hair collected during the event is donated to sustainable salons to create wigs for those experiencing medically induced hair loss.
Several Redlands hairdressers generously volunteered their time, talent and personalities, adding to the success of a joyful and uplifting atmosphere.
Their ongoing support of the Carmel Chop is deeply appreciated and adds to the strong sense of unity within the local community.
Event coordinator Emee Standing shared her personal motivation.
“I was inspired to participate in the Carmel Chop because my dad had cancer, and I’ve seen firsthand how hard and challenging that journey can be – for both the patient and their loved ones,” she said.
“This fundraiser means a lot to me because I want to spread awareness and do the small part I can to improve a patient’s treatment journey – even if it’s just through providing a wig.”
College Captain Rylee Crossley echoed the emotional significance of the event.
“For me, the Carmel Chop represents courage, compassion and hope,” she said.
“It’s a way to honour those who have battled or are currently battling breast cancer.
“This is one small way I get to stand in solidarity with fighters.”
Both students highlighted the event’s deep roots in school culture,
“It’s become an important part of our culture,” said Emee.
“It brings us together around a shared purpose, creating a strong sense of community, compassion, and support.
“This event is a time where students come together in support of something that matters deeply,” added Rylee.
“For many, it’s a personal tribute to someone they know, and for all of us, it’s a reminder of the strength that comes from standing together.”
Assistant Principal of Religious Education Erin Hardy said the Carmel Chop was a great example of putting faith into action and living out Catholic social teaching.
“In this Jubilee Year of Hope, our students have really shown what courage, compassion and unity look like,” she said.
“Their generosity and the way they’ve stood alongside those affected by cancer is such a powerful reminder of what our Carmel community is all about.”
With strong support from the school and local community, the Carmel Chop continues to be a symbol of hope, unity, and student-led change.
