In fact, three mates who have just given themselves the once-reviled style were "all a bit afraid" of how they'd look, especially as barbers are still closed due to lockdown restrictions.

But that didn't stop them bringing out the clippers for a cause that's close to their hearts.

"I've never wanted one, I don't think it will look too crash hot," said Sam Malone, 19, ahead of yesterday's big cut.

"But I'm still looking forward to it because it's for a good reason."

Sam and two of his friends - Patrick King and Oskar Watson, both 20 - are raising money for the Black Dog Institute's Mullets for Mental Health.

All three went to Chevalier College and finished in 2019.

They have to sport their hair-do for the month of September, and have already raised over $1500. Their goal is at least $2000.

Sam said they were all motivated by a desire to draw attention to the mental health crisis, particularly among young men.

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"Obviously during today's climate it can be quite a lonely place," said Sam, referring to the COVID pandemic which has seen people trapped, often alone, at home for months on end.

"I'm lucky because I'm living at home with Mum and Dad, but I was supposed to move to Sydney for uni last year - I was about to sign a lease on a place, then it all shut down.

"I've been doing uni online ever since."

He said one of his mates didn't escape the Sydney lockdown and has been living alone for months.

"That's not what any 20 would expect to be doing," he siad.

"Plenty of people are doing it so tough at the moment."

Oskar is also living at home, while Patrick lives with friends in Wollongong. Both are while studying online through the University of Wollongong.

Sam is studying double bass at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, and works as a music engagement coordinator at Harbison Aged Care facility.

Seeing the effect of lockdowns at the other end of life has been sobering for him.

"No family members are allowed in at all unless it's an end of life or palliative care situation," he siad.

"It's hard being asked all day, every day, if they're allowed out."

He said he wants to help the Black Dog Institute find more ways to help people with depression, anxiety and other mental health conditions.

"The funds we raise will go into research about how we can better our mental health, especially in situations like lockdown," he said.

You can support their fundraiser by donating here.

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