Free ‘transformative’ haircuts on offer in Kalgoorlie-Boulder as Short Back & Sidewalks expands to Goldfields

Free “transformative” haircuts are being offered to those in need in Kalgoorlie-Boulder as a WA-founded charity expands to the regions. After nearly a decade of offering haircuts free of judgment and free of charge in capital cities across Australia, not-for-profit organisation Short Back & Sidewalks is expanding to 11 regional locations. This week the first two sessions in the Goldfields took place — one in Kalgoorlie and one in Boulder, with local hairdressers taking the time to offer their services. Short Back & Sidewalks chief executive Natalie Jenkins said the “transformative” effects of a haircut went beyond the surface. “It gives them that ability to have self-confidence and to feel good about themselves at a time where there are lots of reasons that things are pretty tough,” she said. “What we are really about is that connection and great conversation that goes on . . . it’s that thing that hairdressers and barbers are so amazing at — making people feel absolutely so important. “Connecting with people at a time when they can feel completely disconnected is really, really important so from a self-confidence and self-esteem perspective, that’s where we talk about that transformation.” Kalgoorlie-Boulder has become the third country location to benefit from the free haircut and grooming services after clinics in Geraldton and Bunbury last month. Ms Jenkins said she was happy to be bringing the service to more people in need. “It’s really great that we can expand into regions because there is a big need and we know that the current housing supply issues and the current cost-of-living crisis has really driven up homelessness in regional areas,” she said. “I think we take being groomed and having haircuts for granted — most people can afford it but a lot of people can’t — at the moment it’s quite a luxury given things are a bit tough for a lot of people. “Particularly if you’re rough sleeping or experiencing homelessness, it’s probably the last thing that you’re thinking about. “But the effects of not feeling groomed and not feeling like you’re presentable in a community that you’re already feeling marginalised from and disconnected from and where people are being judged and stereotyped, then that’s going to make people feel even more disconnected.” The Hair Tribe Kalgoorlie owner Shasta Martin said helping out with the organisation had been on her “bucket list” for some time. “It really felt like a privilege to be able to help people out in need so we’re really excited,” she said. “We want to kind of give back I think — hair isn’t just about hair, it’s about confidence and education, so being able to do this we can make them feel good about themselves. “To be able to provide it to people that won’t usually have these services makes it even like 10 times better.” Ms Martin said giving haircuts to nine-year-old twins Patricia and Darren Edwards was especially rewarding. “To provide that service to such a young boy actually has been the highlight of my day,” she said. “I think he’s gonna be able to go back to his home and you know, just feel extra fresh about himself.” The free haircuts are set to be offered in Kalgoorlie-Boulder once a month, with Short Back & Sidewalks welcoming any local hairdressers who want to offer their services.