Hotels, clubs and bars across Australia are pretty happy to show off their U.G.L.Y. sides as they battle to be crowned the Leukaemia Foundation’s U.G.L.Y. Bartender of the Year in their state.

Bartenders register to be U.G.L.Y. to raise money that helps the Leukaemia Foundation provide high quality housing for families who need to relocate to be able to receive the best treatments.

In Victoria, more than 270 registered U.G.L.Y. bartenders have already raised over $10,000, contributing towards their 2015 goal of $250,000, with which the Leukaemia Foundation will be able to fund over 3000 night’s of accommodation with.

One such VIC bartender is Melissa Rauber, Functions and Events manager at the Carlton Hotel. Seven years ago she witnessed a close friend’s struggle with Leukaemia, but after a long treatment process, her girlfriend went into remission.

To show her support for the Leukaemia Foundation, Melissa recently held a World’s Greatest Shave event in her venue, with 16 locals participating in support of the Leukaemia Foundation.

"When I was asked to be an U.G.L.Y. Bartender in October and November this year, I just had to do it and I’ve set my goal at $3,000. My first U.G.L.Y. event was an U.G.L.Y. Blue Fundraising Night, which involved the DJ and guests wearing all the shades of blue - the night was fantastic!", Melissa said.

Melissa is now holding a second event on Saturday 7 November (the weekend after Melbourne Cup), entitled ‘A Night at the Races', with a glamour blue dress theme. Entry will be a gold coin donation and a unique UGLY Blue Cocktail, along with other drinks specials helping to add to her fundraising.

To get find a local venue and support your local bartender, visit www.uglybartender.org.au

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