In the heart of Gladstone, a familiar face can be spotted strumming away on his guitar, creating an uplifting melody resonating through the streets. Meet Reg Sutton, a dedicated busker who has been using his musical talents to raise funds for Cancer Council Queensland since July 2018.
Reg’s journey into charity busking began at Blend, a local coffee shop, where he started performing one day a week. Little did he know that his humble hobby would turn into a meaningful mission to support Cancer Council Queensland.
His motivation stemmed from personal experiences as he lost his father to liver cancer at the tender age of 16 and later lost his brother to lung cancer in 2018.
Reg’s commitment to the cause became even more profound when he witnessed Glenda, a close friend, lose her battle with lung cancer. Following Glenda’s passing, Rose took over the reins at Cancer Council Queensland, and Reg decided to use his passion for music to support the organisation.
Every fortnight, Reg graces the patrons of Coffee Ink, a local coffee hotspot owned by Sam, with his acoustic performances. Retired since 2016, Reg dedicates his time and musical talents to make a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer. His performance spans a wide repertoire, ranging from hits of the ’60s to the ’90s, with a focus on Country Pop and Country Rock.
“I’ve played the guitar for 30 years, and this is something I can do just to put a smile on their faces,” he says. His passion for music becomes a channel for hope and healing while also raising awareness and funds for Cancer Council Queensland.
Not only does Reg entertain the crowd with his musical prowess, but he also places a collection box for Cancer Council Queensland, encouraging passersby to contribute to the noble cause. His dedication is not just about playing tunes, it’s about making a meaningful impact on the lives of those grappling with cancer.
In the spirit of this holiday season, Reg surprises his audiences with a rendition of Christmas songs, adding a festive touch to his performances. With a heartwarming smile and a twinkle in his eye, Reg continues to spread joy while honouring the memories of his loved ones and supporting Cancer Council Queensland.
As Reg Sutton strums away on his guitar, the streets of Gladstone echo with a melody of compassion and goodwill, proving that one person armed with a guitar and a cause, can make a small but significant difference in the lives of Queenslanders impacted by cancer.