VICTORIA’S powerboat community has dug deep once again, raising much-needed funds for Red Nose Australia during the Archer Eade Memorial Race at Lake Charm.
More than 60 teams participated in the memorial race in honour of Archer Eade, who died from SIDS in 2008.
Victorian Outboard Club president Sam Lucas said the club had raised in excess of $120,000 since the memorial race began just over a decade ago, through auctions and other fundraising initiatives.
Lake Boga resident Ryan Nicholls contributed more than $3000 to this year’s fundraising total, after shaving his hair for the cause.
“It’s nice to be able to help out and support fellow racers who have been impacted by SIDS,” Mr Nicholls said.
The 28-year-old had been growing his hair for the past three years.
And as for his new look, Mr Nicholls said it wasn’t quite what he had expected.
“It’s a little bit different,” he said.
“I’ve been left with a mullet and a goatee.”
As part of the fundraising conditions, Mr Nicholls said he would be sporting his new look for another week, but taking it all in his stride, he said he was grateful he could support a worthwhile cause.
Mr Nicholls said he grew up with powerboat racing, following in the footsteps of his dad.
Reaching up to speeds of 120km/hr, Mr Nicholls competed in the 1.6L Hydroplane Class at Lake Charm, where he placed third overall.
