Parcels during lockdown brought an unparalleled thrill of delight - but for Albion Park residents deliveries are always special.
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Mark Faulkner is like a perennial folk Santa Claus, cruising the streets with his windows down and music up, waving a friendly hello and stopping for a chat with every delivery.
Angela Butler said a chat with Mr Faulkner makes people's day at the best of times, but during COVID he was a lifeline for many.
"He doesn't think he does anything special, but to have someone as lovely as Mark stop to chat was the highlight of people's day," she said.
So when he stopped turning up, they noticed.
Ms Butler and her daughter both enjoy the odd bit of online shopping, and when Mr Faulkner stopped delivering their packages she asked around about him.
She found out he had been diagnosed with cancer.
On top of that, his work as a contractor left him unable to get treatment without losing his income.
Ms Butler had organised fundraisers for cats and kittens before, and thought she'd turn her hand to fundraising for a human.
"I was taken aback when Angela suggested it," Mr Faulkner said.
"I didn't know what to expect."
The Albion Park community leapt at the chance to support Mr Faulkner.
Many of those who donated commented to say they had left the area years ago, but still remembered Mr Faulkner's kindness and good cheer.
"It went crazy," Ms Butler said.
"People donated, businesses donated, kids donated their pocket money because they love him that much.
"People want to help in any way they can - he's a really lovely man and people love him back."
The GoFundMe has so far raised just shy of $15,000.
Mr Faulkner said he was overwhelmed, not just by the donations, but the messages of support.
"I just go out and do my job, have a chat if I can, see how everyone's going and go on to the next person," he said.
"I'm blown away by the number of lovely comments, it drew a tear out of me.
"I feel so proud to be able to deliver to these lovely people and make their day, it makes me happy."
He said the financial pressure that came with his illness has eased.
"I can manage my life better now," he said.
"I was coming out after my chemo treatment to make money to pay bills, but now I can go and get what I need.
"Words can't describe how I feel.
"I just want to say a very big thank you for the support shown, the generosity, the lovely comments, the get-well wishes, everyone has been so fantastic."
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