Meet the mobile barber offering scenic cuts in his custom-made van
For many, heading to the barber is more than just a haircut. It’s a safe space to hang out, have a chat and take some time out from the everyday – bonus points if the barber does a mean haircut while you’re there. After serving many years and discharging from the military, Gary Wilson turned to barbering in 2018 as a way to connect and relate with others while overcoming feelings of isolation. Since then, he has moved north from Coffs Harbour to create the Jolly Roger Mobile Barber van, the perfect place to get a fade, have a yarn, make a new mate and even indulge in a cut-throat shave.
After dedicating years to serving in the military, it can be incredibly jarring transitioning into the nine to five once your service is complete. Gary was no stranger to these feelings and figured he could dive into the deep end with barbering. Not only is it a creative outlet, but the art of barbering helped him learn to relate to people and be social again, often chatting with more than 20 people daily. Initially, Gary owned a barber shop in the beachside town of Coffs Harbour, however, the restrictions brought on by the pandemic heavily affected his business and the industry as a whole. Rather than give up, Gary got the cogs turning and developed the unique concept of a mobile barber. Barbers were facing significant challenges, yet other businesses could still operate, so he figured – why not take the barber to them?
The concept was born at the end of 2019, the van was purchased in March 2020, and the rest is history. For Gary, barbering is more than a job – it’s a lifestyle that allows him to foster a space for men that is just as much about the pamper as it is about the service. Perhaps the best part about Jolly Roger is that it can go anywhere. The expertly kitted-out van can travel to workplaces, wedding parties, markets and even small towns that don’t have a barber. Fancy a haircut by the beach? He’s got you sorted. Gary can head out across Brisbane and South East Queensland to offer a full range of services if you require some TLC, including everything from your standard short back and sides, scissor cuts, cut-throat shaves, fades and even mullets. As he continues to travel with Jolly Roger Mobile Barber and share his love of barbering with the world, Gary can build strong connections within the community and provide a safe space for others seeking a mate.
To book the Jolly Roger Mobile Barber for an event or see its location, head to @jollyrogermobilebarber on Instagram.
Image credit: Kirra Smith