Farewell to a famous mullet: Torquay youngster to brave the chop

AFTER six years growing his trademark mullet, 11-year-old Mack Smith is preparing to shave it off in support of mental health.

The Torquay youngster hopes to raise $10,000 for the Black Dog Institute when he parts with his long locks on 2 July.

Mack has been growing his hair since he was five, inspired by his love of motocross and his favourite athlete, rider Jacko Strong.

Mack drew inspiration from his older brother Braxton, who surfed every day throughout 2024 to raise funds for the Torquay Surf Life Saving Club.

Wanting to make his own contribution – and one-up his brother – Mack decided a fundraising haircut could help support an important cause.

The cause was a natural fit, with mental health regularly discussed in his family.

“Everyone talks about it, particularly in our family, and we felt it was very important to bring awareness to it,” Mack said.

“It just feels good to be able to help people, and $10,000 would be a big deal. I’d beat my brother if I can do that.”

While Mack has become attached to his long locks, he feels “the time is right” to make a change.

“I will feel happy I’m sure,” he said.

“My friends are used to seeing me with the hair, so it will be different changing it up.

“I’ve just grown it non-stop. I get lots of comments on it. Everyone loves it.”

The grade 6 student will join his brother at St Joseph’s College in Geelong next year.

Outside school, he keeps busy with football, basketball, Nippers at the Torquay SLSC and freestyle motocross.

His father, Ben, said he was proud of Mack’s decision to use the haircut as an opportunity to give back.

“It’s great for them [young people] to learn to not just take, take, take,” he said.

“There’s lots of people out there who require some sort of assistance, and it will be great for him to champion that.”

Mack will shave off his mullet on 2 July and is encouraging the community to get behind the fundraiser.

Latest News