Uninews asked Occupational Health and Safety Lecturer Dale Trott why growing a moustache for Movember was something he needed to do.

Dale says love and respect for others were the reasons behind his need to be involved in charitable fundraising.

The progress so far...For the third year in a row I saw undertaking Movember and growing a moustache as a worthy measure in helping others for the common good. This philanthropy, this kindness, is a practical measure and a means of supporting research into the reduction of rates of male depression and in some small way raising awareness as well as much needed funds. Giving voluntarily to those in need, is core to my very being and why I've chosen to undertake Movember again this year.

A side profile...Love and respect of my fellow human beings is why I continue to get involved in numerous charitable fund raising events each year. From fundraising for groups such as Diabetes Australia, to assisting others in their charitable efforts and donating to students in need, these are demonstrations of my resistance to apathy, and my contribution to the wider community as an individual. It isn't always about money, commitment to community is also about getting involved and to this end I make every effort to commit my time where possible to community groups. I'm a long time member of the Rockhampton Musical Union and current committee member, I see my involvement in the RMU as both a lot of fun as well as a demonstration of my own values. As with my teaching of students, for the most part mature adults, I encourage each of them to develop a commitment to their own learning as individuals as well as developing support for the wider community. Most importantly, I encourage students to participate in their community as lifelong learners.

This commitment to community is also core to my research. I recognised early in my academic career how we as educators change the students by the very act of teaching and role modelling behaviours. If the students are to value their learning they need to be shown how it fits into their lives and how they can commit to and support their community. This commitment doesn't end with the students; I also coordinate the early career academic program (ECAP) and support the development of the careers of my fellow colleagues in academia. Academics also need support as part of a larger community of learners.

Movember as a charitable measure is gaining in momentum, as has been witnessed by the various sporting, businesses, academic and government bodies getting involved. Many a time have I walked down the street to be faced with a maturing moustache on an upper lip and been greeted with a nod or a wink of acknowledgement of my own small effort. Even my next door neighbour has been growing a mo'. As part of a team of fellow moustache growers calling themselves the Bare Hairs (Mitchell Duncan, Ryan Kift, Aaron Scanlan), I encourage you all to get involved in this charity or in any other efforts in your community to make this life and world a better place. Any donations can be provided online to http://www.movember.com.au/ (all donations over $2 are tax deductable).