Eighteen of the 19 men - the 19th is presently under pressure to conform - from Castlemaine police are sacrificing their side of the bed to raise money and awareness for men’s health, particularly prostate cancer and depression.

“We’ll be looking pretty scruffy by the end of the month,” Senior Constable Grant Healey said.

“Our wives aren’t speaking to us . . . I don’t think the guys will be getting too many kisses this month.”

Senior Constable Healey said he had always thought about taking part in `Movember’, but it wasn’t until he ran into an old friend who was suffering prostate cancer that he decided to finally get a group together for the challenge.

“I can sympathise with those who dread the infamous prostate test and if us raising money for men’s health will advance technology, then we may not have to go through such an invasive procedure.”

The month-long competition will be judged by former Geelong footballing great Billy Brownless, who was in Castlemaine yesterday to kick-start the challenge.

Castlemaine police will also have collection tins in local hotels, cafes and at the police station for anyone who would like to donate.

All proceeds will go to Movember Australia, which raises money and awareness for The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, as well as beyondblue - the national depression initiative.

Senior Constable Healey is also encouraging other local businesses, and emergency services to take up the challenge and see who can grow the best mo by the end of the month.

For more information about Movember, visit www.movember.com