Over 70 students and five teachers participated in this year’s Ponytail Project on Tuesday, 4 August which has raised more than $82,000 for Queenslanders affected by cancer.
Principal Ms Ros Curtis said the Ponytail Project initiative started five years ago when a group of students felt compelled to make a difference in response to a St Margaret’s parent being diagnosed with cancer.
“The Ponytail Project is one of the biggest and best examples of St Margaret’s culture of student philanthropy.
“Each year, we see the girls motivated and inspired to genuinely make a difference in the lives of others through the very selfless act of cutting their own hair.
“The girls realise that not only are their ponytails going to be turned into a wig for someone who has lost their hair but that through this campaign they are also making an important donation towards Queenslanders whose lives have been impacted by cancer.
“It’s very empowering for them to know they are making a real difference,” said Ms Curtis.
So successful was the Ponytail Project concept which, in 2019 Cancer Council Queensland adopted the project encouraging schools across the state to join the cause.
Cancer Council Queensland CEO Ms Chris McMillan commended St Margaret’s students on their efforts and dedication to the cause.
“Each year the students at St Margaret’s show their commitment to supporting those impacted by cancer, and we are incredibly grateful for their incredible fundraising efforts,” Ms McMillan said.
“Not only does the Ponytail Project provide a way for students to raise funds for the work of Cancer Council Queensland, it gives them the opportunity to learn about the impacts of cancer, including ways to reduce their own cancer risk through making healthy lifestyle choices from early on in life.”
While it was many of our senior students who took part in the hair cutting, our primary students also had the opportunity to witness this very important cause and learn how as an individual or a collective community, they too can make a difference in the lives of others. The girls sported crazy hair styles and braids in a display of their support.
St Margaret’s students and staff thank Mark Byrne from AlfaParf Milano and current parent and hairdresser Angella Kaushik who each generously supported this year’s Ponytail Project by cutting the girls’ hair.
The ponytails will be donated to Real Fringe Hairbands to help those who have lost their hair due to a medical condition.