Big heart for The Big Issue

As he has done for the past 12 years, Bill Ford smiles patiently at passers-by. When someone approaches him, his face springs to life; a five-dollar note is exchanged for a copy of The Big Issue magazine.

One of the oldest hands there is, Bill has been working for the venerated street publication since its inception, and even sold the second ever copy in Sydney. After following one of his first customers to the University and realising the vast selling potential, Bill has set up fort there ever since, dividing his time between the Darlington campus and Central Station.

Before our interview begins, a campus security guard heralds the vendor eagerly from afar. “You’re a fair dinkum Aussie, Bill! Moved spots this morning for another mob I see.” He pauses to shake the firm, sunburnt hand, before continuing, “But everyone knows you here. You’re a foundation. If they don’t know you, they haven’t been here long!”

The University has been Bill’s unique market domain for longer than anyone can remember. His shrewdness, assertive nature and contagious vitality of spirit make him a renowned figure amongst the University staff and students. “Other vendors have tried to sell here but they don’t last long,” Bill says. “It’s sometimes tough but I come out rain or shine. It doesn’t matter what the weather is like or how I feel that day. Nothing stops me.”

Having moved constantly throughout his childhood and youth, Bill first started selling the publication when he found himself homeless. After moving between several boarding houses, funded by his newfound income, he finally secured enough money to rent a small studio apartment in Annandale.

Nowadays, Bill’s proudest achievement is a throng of regular customers who have stuck by him through the toughest of situations. He has witnessed the booming sales of his publication to the extent that a courier would drop him off extra boxes whilst he sold them, and now must face the fact that many of his buyers have become redundant themselves.

In spite of the difficulties he has faced and will continue to face, the veteran vendor is optimistic. To Bill, selling The Big Issue isn’t just a job; it is a way of life. “It’s my reason to get out of bed in the morning. It gives me something to do each day and lets me talk to people. You’ve got to get out and enjoy the world while you can.”

The Big Issue exists to offer homeless and vulnerably housed people the opportunity to earn a legitimate income. Like other vendors, Bill buys the magazines in bulk from Head Office and keeps half the cover price of each one he sells.

Source: South Sydney Herald September 2009 www.southsydneyherald.com.au