Bob's haircut pays off

Fundraising

More than $9000 has been raised to date for vital research thanks to the snip of one lock of hair - and donations are still coming in.

Professor Bob Hill has finally given up his ponytail, which has been with him most of his life. The Executive Dean of the University of Adelaide's Faculty of Sciences first grew a ponytail in his undergraduate student days, and only agreed to have it cut off to raise funds for the Brain Foundation (SA).

The event occurred on the University's Barr Smith Lawns, hosted by ABC Radio 891's Tim Noonan and drawing a large crowd of curious spectators.

"The actual haircut took on some aspects of a public execution," Professor Hill said.

"It was a difficult lead up, given it has been part of me for a long time. The hour beforehand seemed much longer. However, the organisers were fantastic and I was really impressed by the way people gave up their time so freely for such a good cause," he said.

Former University of Adelaide science student Luke Rosenzweig was the wielder of the scissors. Luke is a previous recipient of a Brain Foundation scholarship, following a car accident that left him severely injured.

"I am very pleased with the outcome from the whole event," Professor Hill said. "I had no idea how important this was to the Brain Foundation and I would never have expected to raise so much money for what is, in the end, such a trivial sacrifice.

"Interestingly, most people take a while to notice that it has happened, so I obviously haven't changed much.

"I think it is fair to say that people are unlikely to see an Executive Dean of Sciences with a ponytail for another few years at least, and I don't think it will be me."

You can still make a donation to support research into brain disorders, diseases and injury at the Brain Foundation (SA). To make a donation, call (08) 8303 3607 or visit the website: www.sciences.adelaide.edu.au/ponytail/

Story by David Ellis