The University of Queensland’s Shave for a Cure secret weapon is a secret no longer.

The UQ Union has been promoting that an anonymous campus celebrity will feature on the Leukaemia Foundation Shave for a Cure team.

The Union has now lifted that veil of anonymity and announced that information technology student Patrick Hackett has promised to shave off his luscious locks if the UQ Union Shave for a Cure team raises $10,000 in sponsorship pledges by Thursday, 20 March.

Patrick, known as ”The Glorious Ranga Mullet”, is well-known around St Lucia for his impressive head of red hair.

He started growing his current mullet at the start of 2012.

The hairstyle has led to social media fame and has even led to his photo featuring on popular television program The Footy Show.

Patrick said the fame generated by his hair had given him an opportunity to help others.

“I came to the conclusion that I should shave it off to help the Leukaemia Foundation’s Shave For a Cure,” he said.

“I am both excited and hopeful that we can raise a lot of money for the fantastic cause.”

About 31 Australians are diagnosed with leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma or a related blood disorder every day, according to the Leukaemia Foundation.

Shave for a Cure raises funds by encouraging people to sponsor friends and family to shave or colour their hair.

The proceeds support the Leukaemia Foundation’s work in research investment and support for families.

To support Patrick and students shaving or colouring their hair, donate to the wishing well in the UQ Union Complex or go to the UQ Union Shave Squad Leukemia Foundation web page.

The Uni Hair Salon will be shaving and colouring hair in exchange for a $10 donation to the Leukaemia Foundation.

Those wishing to join the UQU Shave for a Cure team should email askthepres@uqu.com.au

UQU Shave for a Cure event

What: Public shavings and BBQ

Where: Grassy Knoll, St Lucia

When: Thursday 20 March, 11am – 2pm

Donate: Online, at the event, or in the Union Complex everyday this week

Media: UQ Union Kayla Wall 3377 2246 or kayla.wall@uqu.com.au.