For more than a decade, Shane has sold The Big Issue in central Geelong. The 47-year-old speaks to Luke Voogt as the COVID-19 pandemic forces vendors off the streets.
Tell us about yourself…
I have a wife named Tanya, she has cerebral palsy. We’ve been together for 26 years and we’re meant to be together. We like our footy and watching the Terminator movies. Normally we love going out, shopping and having coffee with friends and other vendors.
How has COVID-19 affected you?
I really miss selling The Big Issue and I know other vendors miss it too. You feel more muted as a person; you can still talk to friends and family on the phone, but it’s not quite the same as being out amongst people who bring out the best in you. It’s frustrating that you can’t meet up with mates and have a coffee, but it has to be done.
How are you coping?
It helps to get out and do your shopping, you can’t reach your people but you might say ‘hi’ at the shops if there’s anyone around. I also just got my bike fixed so I’ve been taking it out for a ride.
Why did you become a Big Issue vendor?
In 2006 I was looking for something to do after three years working in a call centre. I had done disability work and other things I enjoyed but never anything I was super at. I ran into a Geelong vendor, Raymond, who mentioned The Big Issue and after six months I gave it go. I did really well the first day, and ever since then I realised how good I am when I’m selling it. After 10 years at Market Square, I moved to Westpac, as with Tanya it was difficult to do mornings. I had a break from 2017 to 2019 due to health issues. During that break I was the worst I had been, feeling lonely and depressed. But the thing that led me back last year was that I could offer something to people. A voice was saying, “you’re meant to do this”.
Why do you sell it?
It just brings out the absolute best version of myself. It feels like you’ve got the Batsuit on. My sole purpose for selling is about bringing something positive to every person I come across. There’s a wonderful gentleman who will buy one from Steve, another vendor, and then one from me and give one to his sister. A massive thanks to all the customers who talk to us and give us support – to have a whole bunch of people turn up every fortnight and care about you is amazing.
What do you think of The Big Issue going digital?
It gives people a chance to still buy and read it, it’s a wonderful thing to have in place while we wait for this to be over.
More information: www.thebigissue.org.au
