Each year for the past decade Santa from Lemon Tree Passage, also known as Graeme 'Tobes' Tobin, has grown out his beard and shaved it off come January to raise funds for breast cancer research. This year, however, in light of the recent bushfires he is pledging all donations to the TIlligerry Rural Fire Service.

The fundraiser will take place at Tilligerry RSL Sports Club on Friday, January 17, from 6.30 pm. Local barber Karen Henderson will shave Santa's beard and hair to raise funds for the RFS.

"I started doing this when my dear old mum [Mary Tobin] succumbed to breast cancer more than 10 years ago," Mr Tobin said.

"So many people are affected by it. Hopefully in the not-too-distant future they can cure it, or find a treatment to get rid of it.

"I have always supported the McGrath Foundation because I believe breast care nurses make a world of difference to the lives of families experiencing breast cancer. But this year I believe the RFS deserve all the help they can get."

Mr Tobin said he aimed to raise as much funds as possible and for anyone who cannot attend the shave and would like to donate to the cause, they can at Tilligerry Volunteer Fire & Emergency Public Fund BSB: 637 000 Acc No: 720263580.

Tilligerry RFS community liaison officer Candice Matalone said that brigade was always happy to receive other donations like water and non perishables.