At the Bombers' Family Day on Saturday, February 17 the defender, affectionately known as 'Red Dog', is grooming his hair to raise money for the club's charity partner Challenge.

Challenge is a not-for-profit organisation that provides daily support for children and families living with cancer or a life-threatening blood disorder from diagnosis through treatment and beyond.

Yakult, the Bombers’ longest-serving commercial partner, has bottled up $10,000 to kick-start the donations as Major Event Partner of Red Dog’s Big Groom. In 2024, Yakult will celebrate 30 years in Australia, as the popular fermented milk drink continues to penetrate the Australian market.

With the goal of raising $50k for the charity, Redman wants to make a difference to children who are suffering from cancer but also their family and friends who are impacted by the diagnoses.

"Childhood cancer doesn't just affect the patient, it impacts every aspect of their world, especially their family and friends," Redman said.

"In Australia, 20 families each week are diagnosed with cancer and within Victoria alone, there are more than 220 cases per year. Challenge does an incredible job of providing support to these families and plays a crucial role in ensuring that no family facing childhood cancer has to do it alone.

"But Challenge can't continue their work without our support, so I've finally decided to groom my locks and raise the much-needed funds to ensure Challenge continues fulfilling their promise - that no family living with childhood cancer goes unsupported.  

"So, Bombers fans and all footy fans, now I need your help because every donation, no matter how big or small, can play a role in ensuring families impacted by childhood cancer can access the resources needed throughout their journey."

With the support of Yakult, since 2017 the Bombers have dedicated one game each season to the club’s long-serving charity partner Challenge.

Challenge CEO David Rogers thanked Redman and encouraged all Bombers fans to get behind the defender.

"Mason is a tough competitor on the field, but this campaign shows his heart of gold and genuine care away from the field," Rogers said.

"At Challenge, our mission is to embrace each child impacted by a cancer diagnosis with unwavering support and compassion. What sets Challenge apart is our personal approach – we don't just offer support; we walk alongside our families through every step of their journey. Our commitment lies in tailoring our support services and programs to fit the unique needs of each individual within the family unit – whether it's the child battling cancer, their parents, or siblings.

"Every donation, regardless of size, plays a crucial role in ensuring that families living with childhood cancer never walk alone."

With Redman's groom booked in for Saturday, February 17, fans can get behind our beloved defender and show their support for children and families living with cancer by donating here.