For a good cause: Tim Birnie after saving his beard to raise funds for the Kingston Smith Memorial Fund.
After the devastating loss of her son, Kingston Smith, just before his third birthday, Madeleine Birnie and her family wanted to do something to honour his life.
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In conjunction with her parents, Brendan and Dianne Smith, and Tomorrow Today, she established the Kingston Smith Memorial Fund in 2015.
The fund, administered by Tomorrow Today, supports early intervention programs that enhance education, health and wellbeing of Benalla’s young children.
The fund supports families to access opportunities such as swimming lessons and glasses for their children.
Legacy: Madeleine Birnie and Kingston Smith.
The fund assists families who would not otherwise be able to afford these expenses.
Ms Birnie explained that knowing how the funds were used was important to her and her family.
“We get a letter each year from Tomorrow Today which tells us how funds were spent,” Ms Birnie said.
“It makes me glad to know that children in Benalla are getting the benefit of the funds — it’s really rewarding to hear about it.”
Every year, Ms Birnie and her family raise money to contribute to the fund; this year is no exception.
To coincide with the anniversary of Kingston’s passing on December 17, Madeleine’s husband, Tim, crowd-funded his own “great shave”.
Growing it out: Tim Birnie's beard prior to the big shave.
Mr Birnie grew and then shaved off his beard for the special cause.
“Tim’s always kept a very well-maintained beard, so having him not touch it for two months was a massive thing,” Ms Birnie said.
Mr Birnie also shared how special it was to be making a difference.
“I’ve loved my beard for many years, but it was an honour to lose it for this worthy cause,” Mr Birnie said.
“We raised just over $1000 for the fund. We had about 25 people sponsor me. People were so generous. We’re very grateful to them for donating.”
Local hairdresser Bec Murray donated her time and skill to make the big shave a reality.
“We’d like to say a big thank you to Bec, who gave her time for free to do this — she’s done a great job,” Ms Birnie said.
“And also to my parents, Brendan and Dianne, for their support in making this happen.”
When asked whether another great shave was on the cards for next year, Ms Birnie laughed and suggested that one of her many siblings might take up the baton next time for a unique fundraising activity.
If you would like to contribute to the Kingston Smith Memorial Fund, go to tomorrowtoday.com.au and click donate.
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