PHOTO: Matthew Barnes (right) and Josh Lee (left) with Luke McMahon from Southern Cross Ten, Tony Dunn from Explore Outdoors, Karen Howard from LA Wardrobes, Sandi Smith from Furney’s Building and Peter Blackman from Bridgestone Tyres who donated items to replace Matthew’s stolen fishing gear.
The Dubbo community has opened its heart to 15-year-old Matthew Barnes who had his brand new fishing rod stolen while rescuing three people from the Macquarie River at the weekend.
One of the three people rescued by 15-year-old Matthew Barnes from the Macquarie River on Sunday has applauded his saviour’s bravery.
“Little Matt saved our lives,” 35-year-old Justin Dixon said. “I can’t praise Matt enough. He was cool and calm under pressure and I was on my last breaths when he dropped the boat down in front of me.”
Mr Dixon became trapped in turbulent water below South Dubbo weir about 3pm Sunday while attempting to rescue one of the other two victims.
Matthew, who had been fishing with his new rod and reel, lowered his good friend Josh Lee’s inflatable boat down to the trio who were able to use it to push away to safety. Matthew then called an ambulance.
After the ambulance had left with two of the victims, Matthew discovered his fishing rod had been stolen during the event.
The Dubbo public has collectively shown their appreciation of Matthew’s quick thinking and bravery, as well as their disgust at the sickening theft and offered to replace the stolen items.
Peter Blackman selflessly gave Matthew his own rod, reel and lures yesterday.
“I’m a fisho and if my son had his pinched I’d do the same thing,” Mr Blackman said. “He saved people and did a good thing, meanwhile a coward took gear he had been saving hard for.”
Tony and Sheri Dunn of Explore Outdoors showed similar compassion and offered Matthew a new tackle box.
Dubbo Bait and Tackle, who sold Matthew his original rod, has offered him an $80 gift voucher. Other Dubbo businesses including Southern Cross Ten, Joyce Mayne, SSS BBQs, Furney’s Building, the Daily Liberal and LA Wardrobes also made donations.
A lady who has a grandson of similar age gave him $100. Matthew immediately split the money with Josh Lee, who was also involved in the rescue effort.
Matthew’s proud father Graham said he was not surprised at his son’s actions because of his laidback nature.
“When he got home on Sunday he said a couple of people fell in the river and he helped them,” Mr Barnes said. “He is laidback and simply does whatever needs to be done and doesn’t panic.
“A lady called us when she read the story and said she wanted to thank him. When we went to her place she gave Matthew a cheque for $120 to replace the rod.
“It is an unbelievable response from the public and shows there are a lot of good people out there.”
After receiving his new fishing gear Matthew and Josh said they were off to go fishing.
“There are a lot of nice people out there,” they said.
“People have been calling us, saying they appreciate what we did and giving us gifts.”