In its seventh year, the competition boasts 161 lip imprint entries, which were painstakingly culled down to just 20 finalists. 

Organiser Peg Harkin said this year there was a high ratio of male entrants.

 ‘‘We had a few men enter this year, which is great to see,’’ she said. 

Finalists in the competition are expected to gain as many donations as they can in the lead up to tonight’s event.

 ‘‘For every $1 donated finalists get one vote and the finalist with the most votes at the end of the night wins,’’ said Mrs Harkin. 

First place will take home a return trip for two to Cairns courtesy of Skytrans and the runner-up receives a return trip for two to Townsville, thanks to Regional Express Airlines. 

All 20 finalists also receive consolation prizes thanks to Mount Isa’s Natural Beauty and Spray Tanning. 

Funds raised by the competition are donated to Mount Isa and North West Breast Cancer Support Group and Zonta Self Esteem Workshops. 

With a fund-raising target of $6000, Mrs Harkin said every little bit helps.

 ‘‘Every year it’s different, last year we had a record $1600 raised by a single entrant,’’ she said. 

‘‘The vote count is finalised at 8.45pm tonight.

‘‘Finalists are urged to encourage all their family and friends to attend and dig deep.’’ The event will also wrap up the attempt for the World’s longest bra chain, with donated bras to feature on display. 

‘‘In Mount Isa there are so many people suffering — we are just trying to help find a cure,’’ said Mrs Harkin.

The Kiss for a Cause  competition starts at 7pm tonight at the Buffs Club, entry is a gold coin donation.