Circus performer emerges new man after close shave

Local circus performer and trainer Franque Batty emerged a new man last week when he braved the clippers to raise money for the Leukaemia Foundation.

After nearly five years of growing his beloved beard, the moment finally came for Mr Batty to farewell his fuzz and take to the barber’s chair during a morning assembly at Broome Primary School.

The World’s Greatest Shave participant received lots of support and cheers from students, teachers and parents, who gathered to witness the highly-anticipated event.

A bid was held for the first cut which was won by parent Shayne Clark after pledging $150.

Afterwards, it was auctioneer and BPS teacher Simon Zuvich’s turn to brandish the razor.

But it didn’t stop there.

Mr Batty also lost his dark locks in the process but opted to keep his moustache.

Speaking to theBroome Advertiser after the event, Mr Batty said he felt like a new man.

“I feel transformed, I’m not sure whether I’m the same person,” he said.

“I’ve lost a good friend.”

Mr Batty said he was stoked with the amount raised and the support he received from BPS and the wider community.

More than $2000 was raised through BPS which will be added to Mr Batty’s fundraising efforts, totalling around $3000.

Meanwhile, fellow WGS participant Leonie Evans will take her turn in the barber’s chair at Broome Barrells Surf Shop at Paspaley Plaza this Saturday. A sausage sizzle and an auction will be held from 10am with the shave scheduled to be held from 11.30am.

For more information visit www.worldsgreatestshave.com.