With the tables set, and the scissors handy, nine members of the Burdekin Netball Association (BNA) will #RockTheChop this Friday, the 29th of August at the club’s Wigs & Wine fundraising party!
The Ponytail Project fundraising event supports the vital work of the Cancer Council Australia and encourages people across the nation to #RockTheChop and donate their hair to create wigs for those diagnosed with cancer. In 2024, the campaign saw more than 15,500 people donate their hair across 1,700 fundraising events, raising over $1.1 million for cancer research projects directed by the Cancer Council Australia.
Cailin Gosling, Aimee Gibson, Kristine Patti, Brittany Bohl, Dominique Gorey, Ella Zabel, Jade Bolam, Tayah Gibson and Tayla McKaig have committed to cutting their hair all in support of those diagnosed with cancer.
“I feel extremely grateful to be part of this Ponytail Project event for Cancer Council hosted by Burdekin Netball,” shared Cailin.
In January of 2021, Cailin cut and donated her hair to Hair with Heart through WA based children’s charity, Variety, and immediately after sending her locks away, she knew she wanted to continue donating her hair to those in need.
“In a meeting we were discussing hosting this event and I didn’t think twice when asked. I’m grateful and blessed I can grow strong, healthy hair to share with others,” Cailin added.
The event will be run in aid of 2025 Harvest Festival Queen Entrant, Aaliyah Gibson, and after the BNA sounded the call for women interested in becoming involved, many saw this as the perfect opportunity to support those they love the most.
“When the opportunity came to be part of a community event that supports not only our local sporting club but also an incredible cause like the Cancer Council, it wasn’t even a decision - it was an instant 'count me in!',” explained Brittany.
“Too many people are affected by this devastating disease, including some very close to my heart and if donating my hair can help even one person feel more confident during such a difficult time, then cutting my ponytail is a small gesture with a big purpose.”
Kristine, like many, has also held the hand of loved ones diagnosed with cancer. After hearing of the BNA’s initiative, she saw it as an excellent opportunity to raise funds for vital research projects and dove in without hesitation.
“Raising funds through this project is equally important to me because the money goes directly towards cancer research, prevention, and support services. Every dollar raised is a step closer to better treatments, more hope for families, and ultimately, a future with less suffering from cancer. Being able to contribute to that, even in a small way, means so much to me.”
The nine women have established their own fundraising pages and have each well and truly exceeded their initial goals, raising over $10,000 for the Cancer Council Australia, with still the funds raised from this Friday’s event yet to be calculated.
“It’s amazing how quickly the community responded to our fundraising, and we sincerely thank each and every one of them for their contributions,” said Cailin.
“Once Burdekin Netball and my fellow teammates began spreading the word, the response was overwhelming. Our community rallied behind us with incredible generosity and support. It’s been truly humbling to witness,” Brittany shared.
“This experience has shown just how deeply cancer has touched all our lives. Whether the contribution is big or small, we all want to help - because when we come together, we make a difference.”
If you would like to make a donation to the girls, visit www.ponytailproject.com.au/fundraisers/BURDEKINNETBALL.
Aimee Gibson, Tayla McKaig, Aaliyah Gibson, Ella Zabel, Kristine Patti, and, Jade Bolam, Cailin Cosling, and Tayah Gibson, among others, have raised over $10,000 for the Cancer Council (Photo Credit: Cailin Gosling)
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