Ballina pitches in to help homeless flood victim Matthew after alleged Lismore bashing

Ballina has rallied behind a homeless and flood-affected man allegedly viciously bashed and robbed by a group of teens in Lismore. This is Matt’s story.

Members of the Ballina community have rallied behind a homeless and flood-affected man allegedly bashed by a group of teenagers who stole his belongings in Lismore.

Matthew, 44, was living on the streets of Lismore after he lost his accommodation in the floods which smashed northern NSW early last year.

It’s alleged in a GoFundMe set up to help Matthew, who asked for his surname not to be published, that “he was set upon by a number of teenagers”.

The GoFundMe states the attackers “bashed and kicked him in the face and body then they decided to steal all his belongings, tent, cooker and clothes”.

Matthew (left) and Scott Crossingham in Ballina. Picture: Sarah Buckley

Matthew suffered a broken right arm and “has been homeless, depressed and in pain ever since”.

Ballina residents Scott Crossingham and Mark Ros, have been “the main driving force” in helping Matthew acquire necessities including a swag, food and a place to set up at a Ballina church, before he sets out for down south to find work.

Matthew, who used to work odd jobs on farm, said he met Mr Crossingham at a local bottle bank when he was collecting money from recycling.

“Scott and his partner, Christine, took me back to their house for a shower and food,” he said.

“I didn’t have anything.

“I was sleeping out of a backpack.”

Matthew's swag set up at the church. Picture: Mark Ross

Mr Crossingham said the “vicious” attack in Lismore allegedly occurred one week ago.

“Some teenagers broke his arm so now he can’t work,” he said.

“We’re just waiting until his arm heals and he can work again.”

Mr Crossingham and Mr Ross set up a GoFundMe page to help Matthew start a new life in Newcastle.

Matthew thanked the community for coming to his aid.

“There’s accommodation there (Newcastle) and jobs so I can set myself up,” Matthew said.

“But without Scott, Mark, the church and the community I don’t know where I’d be.”

Mr Crossingham said he used to be homeless five years ago and knew “what it feels like to be down and out”.

Matthew in front of his swag. Picture: Scott Crossingham

“I used to be living out of a swag too,” he said.

“I got to Ballina and eventually found myself a job, got a car and met my partner.

“That little kick in the arse helps you get your life together.

“All you need is that one person that gives you hope and helps you, that’s what I’m trying to be for Matt.”

The ‘Help Matt back on his feet’ GoFundMe page has garnered $500 of its $2000 goal.

More information can be found on the fundraising page for anyone considering donating.

The Advocate has contacted NSW Police for more information on the alleged attack.