The South Coast boating safety officer (BSO) has taken ten years to grow his impressive crop of dreads, but it gets the chop on September 28 to raise funds for cancer research.

Even better, if you are in Hanging Rock on September 28, you can snip a lock yourself – for a small donation to the Cancer Council.

The Roads and Maritime Services officer said he was as passionate about finding a cure for cancer as he was about his job patrolling the waters between Moruya and Bermagui and providing safe boating advice. 

“My father died of cancer earlier this year which was caused by smoking,” he said.

“It was a difficult time and I will do anything I can to help prevent other families having to go through the same thing. 

“I am known on the water as the BSO with the dreads. 

“I literally haven’t been to the hairdresser in years, but I am going to cut them all off to raise money for a good cause, as I know cancer affects everyone in some way.” 

According to the Cancer Council of NSW, tobacco smoking is the biggest risk factor for preventable cancer, with about one-in-five cancer deaths caused by smoking. 

Lung cancer is the most common cancer caused by smoking, accounting for almost nine per cent of all new cancers and more than 20 per cent of all cancer deaths in NSW. 

Mr Murtagh said his dreadlocks, tied back during working hours, attract daily comment.

“I have roughly 50 dreadlocks and they go most of the way down my back – most are about 70 cm long,” he said. 

“I am hoping I can inspire some of my work colleagues – current and former - to donate. 

“In fact, anyone who wants to come along to the annual boating safety day at the Hanging Rock boat ramp on Sunday 28 September can line up and have a go at cutting off a dread – for a donation.” 

Events will be held across NSW to promote boating safety and equipment, including inflatable lifejackets. 

To be part of Mr Murtagh’s efforts to raise money for Cancer Council of NSW research, visit http://nsw.cancercouncilfundraising.org.au