In the heart of Bundaberg, Queensland, a local pensioner has found himself in the midst of a modern-day David vs Goliath battle, but this fight isn't over towering giants or mythical lands—it's over the right to sell fresh produce by the roadside. Ray Aitkens, a fruiterer and disability pensioner, has been serving his community with 'a lot of fresh, cheap and affordable' fruits and vegetables, sourced directly from local farmers. His pop-up grocery stall has become a lifeline for many, especially those on a tight budget, including fellow pensioners.

Aitkens's approach is simple: keep the markup low, support local agriculture, and provide for the community. His stall has garnered a loyal following, with shoppers asserting that his produce is not only 'cheaper than the supermarkets' but also of high quality. People from all corners of the town have been drawn to his selection of fruits and veggies, eager to support a local business that, in turn, supports them.

However, the Bundaberg Regional Council is less than charmed by Aitkens's entrepreneurial spirit. They've taken issue with his operation, stating that he's been selling goods commercially on council land without the necessary permit. This isn't the first time Aitkens has faced opposition; he was previously relocated from his spot last year. The move proved detrimental to his business, as the new location's high-speed limit discouraged potential customers from stopping.

Ray Aitkens's stall garnered a loyal customer base for selling fresh produce. Image Credit: Pexels/Olga Lioncat

The financial impact on Aitkens was severe. He claims to have lost $40,000—his life savings accumulated over five to six years through his fruit business. 'It's the most money I've ever had in my whole life, and I lost a whole lot of it to fruit,' he lamented. Despite the setback, Aitkens has defiantly returned to his original location, fully aware that he's flouting local by-laws.

The council's response was swift, issuing Aitkens another fine and ordering him to cease operations immediately. But Aitkens isn't backing down. He's prepared to take his fight to court, standing up not just for himself but for the community that stands to lose this valuable resource. 'This rule has been passed by members of council, and it needs to be changed,' he insists.

The situation has sparked debate among locals. One customer, Richard, voiced his support for Aitkens, pointing out the affordability of his produce and questioning the fairness of the council's stance. 'He's not doing any harm to anyone,' Richard said.

This story of a senior citizen's struggle against bureaucratic red tape resonates with many Australians who value community spirit and the underdog's fight for justice. It raises questions about the balance between regulation and support for small, local enterprises that contribute to the social and economic fabric of their communities.

As the Seniors Discount Club, we stand in solidarity with those like Ray Aitkens, who are making a positive impact in their neighborhoods. We encourage our readers to support local businesses and to engage in conversations about how regulations can sometimes hinder the very communities they are meant to protect.

We'd love to hear your thoughts on this issue. Have you encountered similar situations in your area? Do you believe local councils should provide more support for small businesses like Aitkens's roadside stall? Share your stories and opinions in the comments below, and let's discuss the importance of nurturing local entrepreneurship, especially when it benefits our senior community.

Key Takeaways

• Queensland pensioner Ray Aitkens is battling with Bundaberg Regional Council over his popular roadside fruit stall.
• Aitkens claims the stall provides fresh, affordable produce for locals and helps the community, including the area’s pensioners.
• He risks financial ruin after being fined and ordered to shut down his stall for operating without a permit on council land.
• Despite the risk of further penalties, Aitken vows to continue his fight for the right to trade at his chosen spot, and has the support of local shoppers.

Yahoo News Australia has reached out to Bundaberg Regional Council for comment, and we will update our readers as the story develops. If you have a tip or personal experience related to this story, please email us at [email protected].

 

[Rob44]

Sorry but he is only doing it for one reason. He is earning money, despite what he says. Wonder if he pays tax on his earnings ?

to sell anywhere even from your driveway requires a license. A few years back a child was selling flowers for mothers day out front of his home, grown in their own garden, but never had a permit. He was ordered to take it down.
Rules really are rules. The man thinking he can take it to the Supreme Court- the law is the law, and whilst the law exists.....he'll lose more money. I remember the old raffles for fund raising, then you to have a permit for that too.

The Law may be the Law but it may also be appealed against and that is what our Court system permits and that is why our Court system is there; to allow flexibility and to act as a balance. It is inherited from Mother England and it took several hundred years of serious strife from the days of absolute authority imposed by William the (utter) Bastard in 1066, including one major 8-year civil war that according to one American historian cost 250 000 lives from a population of about 5 million, maximum; and of course at its end the head of Charles 1st in 1649. So if the gentleman in question can take his case to Australia's supreme Court, that is his right to do so, and that is fundamental. And should he win, the Council might be held liable for his expenses.

 

[Rob44]

And so we have Farmers Markets, Food Truck Foods - and they obtain a permit - easy. SE Asia street foods - be sure to have some anti-diarrhoea tablets with you when travelling.

If it is cooked freshly in front of you, you will generally be ok. If we had similar street-side stalls here, we would probably have "stronger stomachs" and be able to cope with foreign bugs. Oddly enough, our high levels of hygiene are not natural, although I am no advocate for cholera and typhoid, nor even the "runs".

I gather that the old bloke in question did apply for a licence but was told to carry out his business in a place that was seen as not overly safe for those who wanted to buy his goods.

 

[Knell]

The Law may be the Law but it may also be appealed against and that is what our Court system permits and that is why our Court system is there; to allow flexibility and to act as a balance. It is inherited from Mother England and it took several hundred years of serious strife from the days of absolute authority imposed by William the (uttter) Bastard in 1066, including one major civil war that according to one American historian cost 250 000 lives from a population of about 5 million, maximum; and of course the head of Charles 1st in 1649. So if the gentleman in question can take his case to Australia's supreme Court, that is his right to do so, and that is fundamental. And should he win, the Council might be held liable for his expenses.

Indeed, that is the law. We are just the Kangaroo Court.

 

[Rob44]

"solely to keep little men in an "important" job making life difficult for others" ..... as opposed to "BIG" men? lol

Fair comment. Oddly enough, dictators tend towards being below average height even in Australia. There are exceptions, such as was Chairperson Mao.

 

[Knell]

If it is cooked freshly in front of you, you will generally be ok. If we had similar street-side stalls here, we would probably have "stronger stomachs" and be able to cope with foreign bugs. Oddly enough, our high levels of hygiene are not natural, although I am no advocate for cholera and typhoid, nor even the "runs".

I gather that the old bloke in question did apply for a licence but was told to carry out his business in a place that was seen as not overly safe for those who wanted to buy his goods.

Speculation, however they do have several farmers markets - go with the flow!

 

[Knell]

Fair comment. Oddly enough, dictators tend towards being below average height even in Australia. There are exceptions, such as was Chairperson Mao.

Yes, I believe in 1803 Napoleon Bonaparte was mocked in British newspapers as a short-tempered small man. LOL

 

[Clancieblue]

I suppose if you give into one, where does it stop. Do we want this happening next to where we live.
I have to agree with KNELL ,disability pensioner ,what is the disability?

 

[maxesmum]

Sorry but he is only doing it for one reason. He is earning money, despite what he says. Wonder if he pays tax on his earnings ?

Who cares if he’s earning money from it? He spent time and money growing or buying the fruit and veggies himself and deserves some return on them. All he’s asking is for the council to show some common sense! Crazy,I know! Common sense from a council??? He just wants to sell from a SAFE,drive through area,easily accessible to everyone. It’s not rocket science. The piece of dirt he wants is just that,a piece of dirt no one is using. He’s helping others and making a few bucks at the same time after putting in the hard yards growing the stuff. I don’t see the problem at all. Council is being bloody minded like all councils. Will he win? No. But I sincerely wish he would.

 

[natalielocket]

to sell anywhere even from your driveway requires a license. A few years back a child was selling flowers for mothers day out front of his home, grown in their own garden, but never had a permit. He was ordered to take it down.
Rules really are rules. The man thinking he can take it to the Supreme Court- the law is the law, and whilst the law exists.....he'll lose more money. I remember the old raffles for fund raising, then you to have a permit for that too.

The councils are just another Political group who do not like people, especially Pensioners, and children who are just trying to get a bit more pocket money.