Australian town to hold first ever ‘Mullet Fest’

The mullet has largely fallen out of favour since its 1970s and 80s heyday, when the “business in front, party in the back” style was sported by everyone from Mel Gibson to Tina Turner.

However, the retro ’do has never gone out of style in parts of Australia, where it “became a symbol of working-class Aussie identity”, says the Huffington Post.

Now the small New South Wales town of Kurri Kurri aims to put itself on the map with the first ever festival dedicated to the barnet.

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The winners will be crowned at the inaugural Mullet Fest at the Chelmsford Hotel on 24 February, which will also feature music from New South Wales rock duo The Stunned Mullets

As well as overall winner, judges will award prizes to contestants in three style categories: “everyday”, “grubby” and “ranga” (Aussie slang for redhead).

One lucky lady will be crowned queen of the women’s mullet, while the mullet-wearers of tomorrow can compete in the “juniors” category.

“The mullet scene is very strong here,” the hotel’s owner, Laura Hawkins, told the Australian Daily Telegraph. “We’ve already had 50 entries.”

But Hawkins - who is also a trained hairdresser - admitted that the ladies’ category could use a few more entrants.

“I see plenty of lady mullets walking around town but I know they’re not signed up,” she said. “I think they’re a bit shyer than the proud male mullet.”

Hopefuls have until 9pm Sunday to enter their crowning glory in the contest.