IT has been a busy few months for a group of local men who have grown beards for Epilepsy Action Australia which provides education and support services to children and adults with epilepsy or other seizure disorders within Australia.

The event was held on December 4 and was a huge success raising a total of $5689, with $1500 of this being raised by participant John Holmes himself.

Not only did the men grow beards and have them shaved, many also volunteered to lose facial hair including eye brows, leg hair and their hair.

Participant, Matt Bloor, said that the effort people put in was outstanding.

“The support was overwhelming, there was great energy and everyone was so generous and I am very proud,” Mr Bloor said.

The event is held every two years and it attracts more support each time.

“Two years ago we had three people, this time we asked a few more and we got 12,” Mr Bloor said.

The group was well supported not only from the community but local businesses as well.

Mr Bloor said the event is not about raising money but more about recognising the condition.

“The money is not the driving force we just wanted to get the awareness out there and let people know it effects more people than we realise,” Mr Bloor said.

With 134,000 Australians experiencing the unpredictable and often debilitating effects of epilepsy it is no surprise the men were keen to help out.