Former Millicent footballer and current Essendon star Mason Redman has had a “big groom”, losing his locks while raising $50,000 for charity.


The footballer, affectionately known as “Red Dog”, on Saturday had his head shaved to raise money for the club’s charity partner Challenge.


Challenge is a not-for-profit organisation that provides daily support for children and families living with cancer or a life-threatening blood disorder from diagnosis through treatment and beyond.


The 26-year-old cut his hair in front of several thousand Bombers supporters at the club’s annual Family Day at the NEC Hangar.


Redman’s first locks were cut by Challenge ambassador Fletcher, before the clippers came out and the dashing defender’s hair dissipated.


Redman said he was thrilled with the outcome of the event.


“It was awesome. I am very proud and humbled by the support for Challenge, and to be sort of a vessel for that amount of donation is unbelievable,” he said.


“I thought it was only going to raise a couple of grand at the start and then one of the guys at the club said ‘No, you will get 40 or 50 grand … I just want to thank everyone who donated.


“I cannot believe it. Hopefully we can still get some more (money for Challenge).”


Redman and the Essendon Football Club would like to thank everyone for their donations and support, with special mentions towards major partners Yakult, Hairhouse, Williams and CT Solutions for their major contributions to Red Dog’s Big Groom.


If fans have not already, there’s still time to donate to Red Dog’s Big Groom.