Essendon captain Dyson Heppell will be losing his locks in support of two relief funds. (Photo: Essendon FC)

Essendon captain Dyson Heppell will lead the club’s fundraising efforts for the bushfire crisis, with the Gippsland product set to lose his locks on Friday in support of two Victorian relief funds.

Heppell’s teammates have kickstarted the 50k by Friday fundraising effort, contributing over $5000 to the campaign with the club also announcing a $10,000 donation.

All funds from the campaign will be donated to Wildlife Victoria and the Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund, at Heppell’s request.

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“On behalf of everyone at the Essendon Football Club, our thoughts are currently with all those who have been affected by the bushfire crisis. I’d also like to acknowledge the firefighters, volunteers and emergency service workers who are putting their own lives on the line,” Heppell said.

“Being a proud Gippsland boy, I have felt particularly distressed about what is happening to our beautiful land and people’s homes, as well as our wildlife affected in the area.

“While there is still plenty to be done collectively, we all want to help in any way we can – big or small. So, I’m finally going to shave the locks off to try and raise $50k this week.

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Copy link Link copied to clipboard Dyson's plea to dig deep Dyson Heppell is urging the Bomber faithful to support those impacted by the bushfire crisis as he loses his locks to raise much-needed funds.

“The highest donor can come out to The Hangar this Friday, grab the clippers and do the honours. I’m calling on our awesome members and supporters to donate as much or as little as they can.

“To everyone who has been impacted by the fires, please continue to stay safe. We’re all behind you. And to everyone who can donate, please dig deep.”

Essendon's co-major partner Amart has also generously committed a $5000 donation to the Skipper’s Shave, with the initial fundraising tally already at $20,000.

The club will also donate $25 from every membership* sold this week to the Skipper’s Shave (*excludes Mighty Bomber pack).

As part of the upcoming Powercor Country Festival, Essendon and Geelong will undertake a series of fundraising initiatives at the pre-season regional game in Colac on Monday, March 9 and the MCG blockbuster in round eight. Further details on these initiatives will be communicated closer to the respective games.