It’s billed as the most Aussie of nights: The Australia Day Eve Shear a Sheep, Drink a Beer, Eat a Pie event at the Sporties.
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As some of the finest shearers gather at the Kincaid Street pub from 6.30pm on Friday, there will be plenty of cheers, but there is also a serious side to the now-annual fundraiser, which is supporting the Beyond Blue mental health organisation.
Founder Matt Hawker said the event was growing bigger, and more widely supported, each year.
Despite the light-hearted line-up of activities, Mr Hawker said there was a serious message behind the laughs.
“Really, what could be more Australian than sitting down with a mate and having a few beers, and while you’re doing that, asking your mate if he is all right?” Mr Hawker said.
He hopes to encourage men to take advantage of the relaxed atmosphere.
“Raising some money for Beyond Blue is good, but what’s even more important is the message to blokes that it’s OK to open up,”Mr Hawker said.
Sporties manager Ben Stratton said there will be a strong competition in the shearing event.