The U.G.L.Y Bartender campaign (which highlights the ‘Understanding Generous Likeable You’ in bartenders and their patrons) has raised more than $10 million for the Leukaemia Foundation’s accommodation service.

The foundation provides a home-away-from-home in each Australian capital city for regional families who must urgently relocate to the city for a loved one’s blood cancer treatment. 

The Neath Hotel took part in the campaign for the first time in 2016 and raised more than $5000 – enough to fund 80 nights’ accommodation.

This year the hotel is hoping to up the ante and at least double that amount, with three major fundraising events planned over the next two months.

This Friday (September 1), bartender Budgie will brave the clippers and have at least half of her head shave for the cause. Budgie – who has had long hair all of her life – said she will have half of head shaved on the night, and the whole lot if they raise $10,000. One of the pub’s regular patrons, Sarge, has also offered to have his long-time moustache shaved off if they raise $1000 by September 1.

The big shave will take place at 7.30pm. Anyone who wants to join in and be shaved – or even waxed – is encouraged to contact the hotel.

Then on Saturday, September 23, the hotel will host a car wash and sausage sizzle from 8am to 11am. Cost is $10 per car, $15 for a 4WD, and $3.50 for the sausage sizzle.

The fundraising will culminate with a ladies’ night on Saturday, October 14. Tickets are $40, which includes a buffet dinner and a champagne cocktail, and can be paid for at the bar.

Neath Hotel bartender Kylie Sheridan said last year’s ladies night was a huge success, with lots of fun and laughs.

She said the hotel has supported a number of different causes throughout the year, and its customers and the local community always provide fantastic support.

Anyone who can help with donations or prizes can contact the Neath Hotel on 4930 8739.