Community & Business
3 April, 2025
Free, fresh cuts for local youth
A FREE pop-up barber shop will be making its way to the Mareeba and Kuranda libraries next week to celebrate Youth Week.
Mareeba Shire Libraries have partnered with Fresh Start Academy to deliver the activities for local youth.
The Cairns-based barber program helps at-risk youth turn their lives around by providing them with training to become qualified barbers.
“We give young people an opportunity to connect with their community in a way that’s positive for them, and in a way that gives them a sense of value,” owner Rob Hodge said.
“I’m all about tangible outcomes. So, our goal is to teach young people a skillset that they can take forward to gain employment.”
Four trainee barbers, along with their educator, will be offering the latest cuts and styles for ages four and up.
People can choose from modern styles such as short back and sides, low/mid/high taper, fade, or burst fade, or they can simply chat with the barbers and get the look that suits them best.
“It’s going to be a vibe day, a lot of our boys cut the modern cuts. It’s a chance for young people in this community to see an example of what they can do with themselves,” Mr Hodge said.
In the two years that the program has been running, 38 young people have completed it, with 28 of them now working full-time in the barber industry.
Mr Hodge said these events can create avenues for at-risk youth who may not know what options they have in their future.
“All the young people barbering come from the same backgrounds and same challenges as a lot of the youth here and they’ve learnt to invest in something that’s worthwhile for themselves,” he said.
“This program is about young lives getting jobs and money in their pocket, giving them options for the future.
“Meaning they can afford those new pair of kicks they see in the window rather than having to steal something to get it.
“You might rock up because you want a free haircut and vibe, or you might want to have a conversation with me about when our next program is and how you can become involved, or what transition options are available if school isn’t working out.”
No bookings are required for the event, however, parental or guardian consent is needed for those 15 and under.
Fresh Start Academy will be at the Mareeba Library on Monday from 11am-4pm, for more information call 4086 4622.
The event at the Kuranda Library will be held on Tuesday from 11am-4pm, for more information call 4093 9185.
