A small group of volunteers are just days away from reaching a huge fundraising milestone for children impacted by cancer.
The team, known as Locks for Laughs, has spent years running quiz nights, sausage sizzles, raffles and head shaves to raise money for Camp Quality, and their long-term goal has always been the same from the beginning.
Raise $100,000 to help bring moments of fun and relief to children facing cancer, and to support their families.
Locks for Laughs began in 2015, inspired by volunteer Maureen Marriott, who has been involved with Camp Quality for 30 years.
She believed a simple idea could make a big difference.
If people were willing to colour or shave their hair, they could raise money and start conversations, all while supporting kids doing it tough.
Over time, the group grew into a core team of six volunteers. Between them, they have volunteered with Camp Quality for more than 110 years.
Team member Val Gilbert, who lives in Canning Vale, said once you start volunteering alongside families impacted by cancer, you understand how much it means for children to have the chance to just be kids again.
“Once you start volunteering with these families you realise how much it means to them to have the opportunity for their kids to have a chance to be kids, away from hospitals and treatment,” she said.
“The kids love it and as a volunteer you come away with your heart full knowing you have made a difference.”
Val said Camp Quality camps and programs help children realise they are not alone.
“They make friends that in their words ‘understand what it’s like’,” she said.
The Locks for Laughs team includes Maureen Marriott, Graham Dearlove, Elaine Chatterton, Smaily Selmani, Brontë Macmillan, and Val Gilbert.
Val said one of the team members, Smaily Selmani, was one of the original Camp Quality kids and has stayed connected to the organisation ever since he was old enough to volunteer.
The group has held fundraising events at several venues across Perth, including East Perth Football Club and Subiaco Football Club, with strong backing from the local community.
Val said the support they received was part of what made the fundraising effort so special.
“A lot of work has gone into these events, but the best thing about it is, that just about everything, from the venue, prizes and anything in between has been donated by the community, friends and family,” she said.
“So, everything we raise goes to Camp Quality.”
The group marked the final stretch of fundraising with a head shave last week Thursday at Elaine Chatterton’s home, and carried out by a hairdresser.
Val said she is currently going through her own cancer journey and her hair has been thinning due to treatment.
“When I said I should shave it to try and get closer to the target, Graham and Maureen immediately said they would do it too,” she said.
“That’s pretty special.”
Camp Quality Chief Commercial Officer Sandie Hall said the organisation relies on the generosity and dedication of volunteers and community fundraisers to continue supporting families at their toughest times.
“Camp Quality brings positivity, fun and laughter back into the lives of kids facing cancer,” Ms Hall said.
“Our supportive programs and services help families build optimism and resilience through community, education and fun.”
Ms Hall said the organisation supports children aged 0 to 15, including children with cancer, as well as children whose sibling, parent or carer has cancer.
“Our community fundraisers and volunteers are truly special,” she said.
“Whether they’re giving their time, energy and care at Camp Quality programs, helping kids and families create unforgettable memories after a cancer diagnosis, or fundraising to support them, they make an incredible and lasting difference.”
Ms Hall said the money raised through Locks for Laughs helps children and families access Camp Quality programs outside the hospital environment.
“Every dollar helps kids going through the trauma of cancer treatment, have the chance to laugh, find positivity and spend time with their family outside of the hospital through our Family Camps, Kids’ Camps, and Family Getaway program,” she said.
Donations remain open, with the team now lifting their fundraising target in the hope of encouraging further support for Camp Quality and the families it supports.
Val said response from the community had been overwhelming and showed what was possible when people came together for a shared cause.
“Please click on the link or scan the QR code and donate what you can afford, every dollar counts. Community is better when we work together,” she said.
Ms Hall also encouraged people to support the campaign.
“If you’re able to donate, please visit their fundraising page and support this incredible fundraiser,” she said.
“We’re proud to back everyone taking part in the head shave and can’t wait to see them hit their $100,000 goal. What an amazing milestone!”
Here’s the link to donate: Locks for Laughs – Locks for Laughs | Camp Quality
