Police still seeking answers after shocking attack on Ballina identity

He’s a familiar sight in Ballina — Peter*, known affectionately (and sometimes not) as “The Can Man”,  has been collecting recyclables from local bins for longer than most can recall. 

A Facebook fan described him as “a legend committed to recycling.” – However not everyone shares that view.  Some have complained about his rummaging through their bins and occasional ‘gruffness’. To put it mildly.

Despite appearances, Peter was not homeless. That changed on the night of Sunday April 6, when his home on Treelands Crescent was set on fire.

According to witnesses, three youths were seen earlier that afternoon throwing bricks through the windows. Hours later, they allegedly returned and set the house alight.

Luckily, Peter was out with his shopping trolley “working” at the time.

Ballina News Daily visited the scene the next morning. The home was cordoned off as forensic officers combed through the charred remains. The structure is beyond repair and will be demolished.

We watched as police lifted the tape to allow Peter to retrieve his favourite trolley (it’s a Coles trolley) — his main tool for collecting those 10-cent refund cans that often go in the general recycling bin.  (At least we assume that’s the business model.) It was a small piece of normalcy coming after what should really be regarded as an act of terrorism on the streets of Ballina.

Fortunately, Peter isn’t without shelter. He comes from what a caring family. They’ve taken him in while he endeavours to find his own space again.  Peter’s supportive brother dropped him off the morning after the fire so he could return to what he knows he needs to do.

Arson is among the oldest crimes on the books — punishable by death under traditional British law. While justice today may be more lenient, the community’s outrage remains strong.

Local resident Edward Bartos put it best: “Yes, he was abrupt at times. Unpleasant and way off the Richter scale. But he was the Can Man. Our Can Man. Warts and all. I’d like to think we look after our own. He didn’t deserve this.”

Despite the current eye witness reports, police are yet to make an arrest.  Anyone with information is urged to contact Ballina Police or Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.

Know more? Contact the Ballina News Daily

*We have chosen not to reveal Peter’s full name to respect family privacy.  You can read our Privacy Policy here.