In Batemans Bay, a dozen police officers have taken on the challenge.

In the next four weeks, these men in blue shirts will cultivate their moustaches into luxuriant comb-overs, although some acknowledge their best efforts may not be bountiful.

Sgt Brett Pitkin is behind his colleagues’ efforts after his own cancer surgery and observing an uncle deal with prostate cancer.

“It was a bit close to home,” he said.

Although the Movember health campaign concentrates on male depression and prostate cancer, Sgt Pitkin said it brought attention to other, often unspoken, male health issues.

The officers want individuals, sports clubs and businesses to form teams and grow for Movember.

Sgt Pitkin said no physical fundraising was required and participants could register on the Movember website.

He said NSW police officers last year raised nearly $25,000 for the cause. With 22 teams registered, they hope to better this in 2011.

The lip fluff will be shaved off at the end of the month.

Women can help through Mo-Sista’s. To donate money or sponsor the event, visit the website. Funds go to programs run directly by Movember, the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia and beyondblue, the national depression group.