3 December 2012 Lincoln University scientist's beard-growing formula proves a winner

Joshua, who is a Lincoln University graduate with a science degree in agricultural biotechnology and biochemistry, works in the campus-based Biotron (a large, secure, controlled-environment plant-growing laboratory). He says the beard was favourably received by his work colleagues as he sprouted and shaped it over the 30 days of November. And now he has the prizes of a t-shirt, to prove he was there in the competition, plus vouchers from Coffee Culture.

Lincoln University's Movember effort was very worthwhile, says the University's Health and Safety Manager, Adrian Brown, leader of the Linked Mos, the University's team of 14 entrants.  Even the Vice-Chancellor, Dr Andrew West, was an enthusiastic  member and beard grower.

Adrian organised the event along with the Lincoln University branch president of the Tertiary Education Union (TEU) Stuart Larsen, and by the time all the sponsorship money is in it is hoped that over $3000 will be available for the two areas of support - male mental health initiatives and prostate cancer research.

Adrian says it was a good opportunity for the University and the Union to work together and support a common goal.

Judging was conducted by The Court Jesters comedy team, who presented a comedy show for staff based on the Scared Scriptless format of improvised comedy.