STAFF at Mildura’s Forty Winks store admit they have received mixed reactions to the moustaches they have grown as part of the annual Movember campaign.
But as they close in on their fundraising target of $1500 with just a few days remaining, they say they have been happy to wear the jokes in support of a good cause.
Movember started in 2003 and raises millions of dollars each year for men’s health projects, including mental health and prostate cancer research.
Salesman James Dawson said Mildura staff decided to join the campaign this year because many of their friends had suffered from mental health issues or prostate cancer.
“We sort of thought it’s a good cause to raise money for, so that’s initially why we did it,” he said.
“We’re raising money for this mainly because rural areas suffer a little bit more with all levels of healthcare, because we are isolated.
“This is going to help get that funding up to eventually travel out to these areas and to get that continuity and to get that funding to get more people the help they need, whether it be testicular cancer, prostate cancer, or mental health.”
Mr Dawson said the response from customers had been overwhelmingly positive.
“Customers have been sensational in-store. They’ve all been very generous,” he said.
The moustaches have also proven a great conversation-starter, with customers’ opinions divided over the salesmen’s appearances.
“Mine gets the most reactions, it’s not all positive,” Mr Dawson said with a laugh.
The Mildura store has raised almost $1100 so far, but is pushing for $1500 by the end of the month.
The team is taking donations in-store at Forty Winks Mildura, or online at moteam.co/forty-winks-mildura
