22.08.2021

By Paul O'Rourke

Pastor Peter Shurley (pictured above) grew a beard in lockdown and raised $10,000 to buy a car for use in helping disadvantaged locals get a driver's licence.

The founding and senior pastor of Life Christian Church at Ulverstone and Port Sorell, launched the 'Beards for Bucks Challenge' while confined at home after a recent trip to Brisbane.

"We set a target of $5000, but I was probably expecting to raise about $1000," he said.

"It goes to show, once again, just how generous our congregation is."

"Easy P's is such an effective program. We want to help raise money for a locally-based car that serves our community."

"We also want to raise up driver mentors and student mentors to serve others."

Ulverstone-based car

The car will be based at Ulverstone for use in the Devonport Chaplaincy Easy P's Learner Driver Mentoring Program.

The program matches learners with experienced mentors who help the novices get their driving hours up, and encourage them in other areas of their lives.

Learner drivers enter the program because they can't afford lessons or do not have access to a car and supervising driver.

Devonport Chaplaincy has two vehicles and is raising funds for a third.

The extra vehicle will increase capacity, reducing the six-month waiting time for new learners to start.

You can register your interest to become a driver mentor.