IT TAKES a special type of fella to grow a beard longer than a forearm but Nathen Coles wouldn't have it any other way.

He's sported his 45cm version for so long, he isn't sure if it's the eighth or ninth year of growth.

As president of the Bearded Men of the Sunshine Coast his famous fuzz is more than a conversation starter.

It has taken him to Austin, Texas and seen him crowned beard king in many a competition.

But in beard competitions size doesn't always matter.

"It's not always just the longest, I've been in plenty of comps where I've lost to a smaller beard," he said.

"Lengthy, colour, density and overall appearance are the main factors, everyone has a chance to win."

This Saturday at the Palmwoods Hotel, the fifth annual beard beard and moustache competition will see the furriest and bushiest go head to head.

There are 115 spots allocated with contestants coming from Victoria, Toowoomba, Ipswich, Brisbane and the Coast.

Competition details

• Saturday July 14
• Register from 4pm, competition starts at 7pm
• Seven categories with prizes for each
• Comp entry is $10, spectators free
• Live music from Bearded Betty

He said having a full length beard commanded respect in the facial hair fraternity.

"I'll be walking through a pub and another person with a beard will see you and give you the nod," he said.

"I find it easy to talk to another person who has a beard. You've just got that respect for each other.

"I've had mine so long my friends wouldn't recognise me if I lost it.

"It gets in the way from time to time but I rarely notice it now."

This year the event will raise money for Headspace Maroochydore.

For more information see the Bearded Men of the Sunshine Coast Facebook page.

7 steps to a thick and furry beard

• Be patient. Leave them untouched for 4-6 weeks
• Match the beard to the face shape
• Know how and when to trim
• Wash it on the regular
• Apply beard oil
• Rub and comb it daily
• Don't forget your moustache