An early Childhood student at Taree TAFE has spearheaded a campaign that raised over $1,700 for brain cancer research.

Ashley Doorey teamed up with Taree Campus and St Clare's School with the Beanies for Brain Cancer fundraiser. Participants were asked to wear beanies for a whole day, something that seemed a natural fit with the frigid conditions of the last week or so.

For Ashley the crusade was personal. She tragically lost her mother to brain cancer eight years ago. As part of her awareness campaign, she spoke openly to fellow students and teachers across the Campus about her loss and the impact of brain cancer, striking a chord with all who heard her story.

"Everyone went quiet and listened to what I had to say," she told the Manning River Times.

She also helped to organize a barbeque and bake sale, activities that drew around 150 people who wanted to support the cause.