A 12-year-old boy who had his snack selling business in Sydney’s eastern suburbs shut down following complaints has been hit with a wave of support by locals.
Jesse Lane banks serious pocked money from selling cold drinks, insect repellent, dog treats and sunscreen in a tent on the Bondi to Coogee walk.
But the venture was shut down after two complaints from locals who said the youngster shouldn’t be able to make profit on public land.
This followed the Randwick Council rejecting Jesse’s trading application as he didn’t have insurance.
When insurance was acquired months later, the application was again rejected.
Faced with the forced closure of the pre-teen’s business, eastern suburb locals have thrown their support around Jesse.
“Jessie is the hard working kid who sets up and sells a number of things for hot and thirsty walkers and their pets,” one man wrote on Facebook.
“The world needs more kids to drive to work hard for themselves and not sit around and play video games all day.
“His parents must be so proud of him and people should mind their business, if the kid wants to make money and work on his weekends good on him.”
Deputy Liberal party leader Sussan Ley also chimed in with support, saying Jesse should be commended for “having a go”.
“We won’t have the small businesses and entrepreneurs of tomorrow if we don’t back them today,” she said.
“This is a foolish decision @RandwickCouncil and it should be reversed.
“Local community (equals) happy, 12-year-old kid having a go … what’s the problem?”
Another said Jesse has told locals of his ambitious plans for the hard earned funds.
“He’s saving for his future he said, to buy a car and things. Very bright kid. I hope he continues to do great,” one woman said.
More than 6000 locals have signed a petition to stop the closure of Jesse’s business.
Randwick Council has been contacted for comment.
For more latest Economy News Click Here