Nambour generosity outshines lousy theft
Keith and his wife Mary were overwhelmed by the kindness shown by Dan and the Nambour community.
A good Samaritan has raised $600 for an 80-year-old busker who was robbed by two youths in Nambour on Wednesday (August 26).
Dan Terry of Duke on Queen Street barbers said he wanted to see a positive outcome to a shocking incident after thieves ran off with busker Keith Upward’s takings.
“Keith was telling me it was the most he had gotten in a long time and understandably he was very shaken,” said Dan.
“As a local business owner it is extremely disappointing to see this behaviour take place in Nambour. I believe it’s important to show generosity and support where we can as a community, because we can stand up against this behaviour and see a change in our town.
“I saw it happen and I ran after the guys but I had boots on and they jumped a fence so I couldn’t keep up. I came back to see that Keith was okay and gave him a free haircut so he could sit down for a while.”
Dan immediately gave Keith $200 to more than make up for the theft. “He was pretty upset and shaken so I said ‘whatever you lost I’ll double it’.”
He then initiated a fundraising drive via the “Living in Nambour” Facebook page.
He presented the $600 in cash to a surprised Keith, in front of news cameras recently (Friday August 28).
Keith and his wife Mary were overwhelmed by the kindness “There are some lovely people in Nambour,” Mary said. “It’s a wonderful town, apart from a naughty boy or two. You’re a beautiful man. Thankyou Dan,” she said as she hugged Dan.
Keith has now become a minor celebrity, thanks to the outpouring of kindness from locals.
“At the end of the day, a lot of good has come out of this,” said Keith. “I can’t believe it’s turned out to be a good experience. What Dan did was incredible. I’ve had a lot of good feedback. I’m back on the horse now. Worse things have happened.”
Keith, who lives in Eudlo, said a council CCTV camera was pointed directly at his busking position, and confirmed that Police had footage of the crims.
In any case he said he would be able to recognise one of the culprits, should he see him again because “he turned and laughed at me while they were running off.”
Keith only began singing 5 years ago. He cut his first CD last year.
He plays at the venue near the post office in Lowe Street on Wednesday and Friday mornings. Duke on Queen St will be stocking his CDs for the next week or so.
“Let’s support Keith so we can continue to see him bringing some lively tunes in the heart of our beautiful town,” said Dan.
“All money collected will go straight to Keith. Together we can make a positive change in our town.”
Witnesses to the theft that happened 11.20am Thursday morning (August 28) are asked to contact Police and quote report number QP2001792788.