The Hunter Melanoma Foundation (HMF) is $20,128 better off thanks to West Wallsend High School’s annual ‘Cancer Sux’ charity walk.

The efforts of students, community and staff to raise the funds was acknowledged at a school assembly, with teacher Janine McKenzie losing her locks after promising to do so if the initial $10,000 target was met.

 For every $10 raised in sponsorship, students received an entry in a draw for prizes donated by community members and businesses, including two tablets donated by HMF.

 The annual walk started 15 years ago in support of a staff member diagnosed with breast cancer.

Other cases among staff since gave the school a strong motivation to keep the support going.

This September’s trek took place on the traditional 16.4km route – from the school, up Mount Sugarloaf, and back.

Before this year’s effort, $80,000 had been raised and distributed among several charities, including The Breast Cancer Foundation, Canteen, Bowel Cancer Australia, The Hunter Medical Research Institute and The Mark Hughes Foundation.

Relieving Principal Michael Chandler said the event empowered students, many of whom have friends and family members affected by cancer.

“Students put a lot of work into it and this year went above and beyond by making coloured ribbons and pins and screen-printed T shirts. They also hosted a Bizfest to raise as much money as possible,” Mr Chandler said.

“They train, chase up sponsorships and prepare costumes in the weeks leading up to the walk.

“It’s also become a bit of a rite of passage for our Year 12 students in their last days of school, leaving them on a high before their exams – literally and figuratively.”