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🇦🇺 Australia /Culture & Society

Outback barber brings fresh fades and more to the Gulf

From ABC Australia · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Named sources Outcome reported
  • A barber traveled to a remote Aboriginal community in Australia's Gulf of Carpentaria to teach hairdressing skills.
  • The program aimed to provide a positive diversion and practical skills for young people following a difficult year marked by suicides.
  • The initiative successfully taught students barbering techniques, leaving behind professional kits for continued practice.

In the remote Aboriginal community of Mornington Island, located in Australia's Gulf of Carpentaria, a unique initiative is bringing fresh haircuts and valuable skills. Jon James, a 42-year-old barber from Mount Isa, traveled to the island to lead the Fade Wellbeing Barbering Program, a three-day workshop organized by North West Remote Health (NWRH).

I couldn't believe how many people already knew who I was through all the social media videos I'd done. I've got the crazy-coloured hair and everything like that, and the tattoos … but I just fit in.

— Jon JamesDescribing his reception on Mornington Island.

James, who has over 20 years of barbering experience, was met with enthusiasm upon arrival, with many residents already familiar with him through social media. The program was initiated by NWRH as a way to offer a positive diversion for the community's youth, especially after a year that saw several suicides on the island. The goal was to equip young people with practical skills that could benefit them long after the workshops concluded.

We knew Jon brought more than barbering skills. He has a genuine ability to connect with people of all ages, creating a safe, welcoming space where conversations happen naturally. His approach reflects our belief that people heal people.

— Sarah GiffordExplaining the NWRH's choice to involve Jon James in the program.

Sarah Gifford, acting wellbeing team leader at NWRH, highlighted James's ability to connect with people and create a safe space for conversations. She emphasized that the organization believes in the power of community members to support each other's healing. The barbering program went beyond just providing haircuts; it focused on teaching students the craft, with the aim of empowering them to become barbers themselves. James likened this approach to teaching someone to fish, ensuring a sustainable skill rather than a temporary service.

I could've gone over there and done free haircuts all day, but once I leave, that's it. Teaching them how to barber is definitely the next step. What's that saying? Give someone a fish and they'll eat for a day. Teach them to fish and they'll eat for a lifetime. That's how I feel about barbering.

— Jon JamesExplaining his philosophy of teaching skills rather than just providing a service.

During the three-day program, students rapidly progressed from learning basic techniques to confidently performing skin fades. James expressed his surprise at how quickly the students grasped the skills, noting their eagerness to advance. As a lasting impact, twenty professional barber kits were left on Mornington Island, enabling the students to continue practicing and honing their newfound barbering abilities.

I couldn't believe how quickly they picked up barbering. They're like, 'Let's go further.'

— Jon JamesCommenting on the students' rapid progress during the program.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ABC Australia. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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