Southern community rallies behind Lowrider Barbershop and neighbouring boutique at Port Noarlunga after arson attack
UPDATED: The southern community is rallying behind a barber shop and boutique forced to close indefinitely after an arson attack.
South
Don't miss out on the headlines from South . Followed categories will be added to My News.
- Port Noarlunga barber shop torched in early morning arson attack
- How to get the most out of your Advertiser digital subscription
A Port Noarlunga barber, who lost his shop to arson just days after opening, says he has been overwhelmed with the support of the southern community.
Lowrider Barbershop has closed its doors after the fire, which is believed to have been intentionally lit, on Monday.
Owner Matt Hill had only recently opened the Gawler St shop after relocating from Lonsdale.
But an online fundraising page set up to help Mr Hill, a single father, has raised almost $1000 in just a few hours.
Jarrod Jones, who has set up the gofundme page for Mr Hill, said the community should help get him back in his shop.
“His bills still need to be paid and he has to provide for his kids,” Mr Jones wrote.
“While he’s not working he has no income at all.
“He is a hard-working single father. His generous nature and community input with fundraising for bushfire appeal and numerous charity events should not go unnoticed.
“Let’s all give a little bit back and stretch a hand for a person that is always there to help others.”
Speaking after the fire, Mr Hill said he was “heartbroken”.
“I’m absolutely gutted, not only for me but everyone I’ve met throughout my barber career helped me get the new shop going,” Mr Hill said.
Police said an accelerant was used to start the fire in the barber shop in the early hours of Monday morning.
Neighbouring boutique – The Sound of White – has also had to close following the fire.
“I really feel for the owner of the boutique next door because all her stock needs to be replaced because it’s been damaged by the smoke,” Mr Hill said.
“I think everyone’s insurance should be able to help them but it’s hard without the income coming in.
“Everyone down here isn’t used to this sort of thing and neither am I but it’s happened and we don’t know why.”
MORE NEWS
Financial lifeline for our tall ships
Adelaide City councillor to nominate for state Greens Upper House spot
Old Stobie family home in North Adelaide could be demolished and subdivided
Fans of the barber and boutique have quickly rallied to offer their support.
“If you need any help I’ll be there, can help with clean up painting anything you need,” one man said on Facebook.
Another said: “I speak for a lot of people, we’re all here for you bro and anything we can do to help I’m sure a lot would put their hands up to help.”