High school wasn’t always easy. Kids picked on each other a lot. When I was 18, I got a job as a kitchen hand and also took acting classes at TAFE in the evenings. Then, when I was about 20, I had a nervous breakdown. It took a lot of therapy to get well again.
During this time, I experienced the heartbreak of my relationship breaking down and I started writing songs about that and other people I knew up in Queensland. I’ve done karaoke and talent quests through my rehab program, and I’ve written quite a lot of songs.
Back in the 1990s, I had a lot of spare time due to anxiety issues – I was on the Disability Support Pension. I’ve been with The Big Issue since the very first issue, back in 1996. I’m probably one of the oldest vendors still around, I think. I’ve also done other work here and there, like a little bit of market research. I did some work for KitKat chocolates and an alcohol company, but The Big Issue has by far been my longest job. I’ve left a few times, mainly due to getting sick, but I always come back.
My pitch is outside Coles at Manly Corso. I have quite a few regular customers. They’re always happy to see me. I live in government housing in Manly. I’ve been here since 2006. I moved from Dee Why through a housing swap. Manly is a great place to sell The Big Issue, especially being near the waterfront. It’s good to be out in the fresh air, and I like meeting new and interesting people, especially the office workers around my area.
A friend recently introduced me to a choir at Willoughby, and I’ve started going every week. They spend about 40 minutes doing vocal warm-ups before the singing starts, which is fantastic. I’d really like to keep performing more. It gives me confidence, self-esteem and a positive feeling about myself.
I’d like to save for a good lawyer if my acting or music starts happening so I don’t get ripped off, and I’d like to approach a casting agency in Sydney. When I lose a bit more weight, I’d love to take professional dance classes – jazz, hip-hop, all that sort of thing. I’d also love to contact Foxtel. Maybe they could make a reality TV show following me around – working, doing everyday things. I’ve also written seven movie scripts based on my life, and I’m still writing song ideas and melodies. I’d love to get my music published. It’s just one step at a time – more therapy, keeping well and working towards it.
I think The Big Issue is great because it gives people a work history instead of having no work history at all. That experience can help people move into other careers and jobs in the future. I think that’s really important.
I’m gay: I’ve had a few relationships, but I’m single at the moment. Hopefully I’ll meet someone again one day. You just do your best to find the right person
John sells The Big Issue outside Coles in Manly, Sydney
Interview by Jen Vuk
Photo by Brent Lewin
Published in ed#766