Northern beaches locals have rallied around Darko Desic, a prison escapee who handed himself in to police 30 years after his jailbreak having found himself homeless.

Avalon resident Peter Higgins has started a GoFundMe for the cash-in-hand handyman and convicted marijuana cultivator, affectionately known as ‘Dougie’ in the area.

The campaign has already raised $13,000 for Desic’s legal representation and life after prison.

Mr Higgins told Ben Fordham he doesn’t know the Bosnian refugee personally, but he’s “probably more of a lover than a fighter” and a model citizen in the Avalon community’s eyes.

“I wouldn’t have known [Desic] if I tripped over him … but I’ve heard a lot of wonderful stories about him in the last few days.

“He seems to be a really decent fellow.”

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In response to the contentious story, commentator and former politician Warren Mundine called in to share how “bizarre” he finds the community’s support for the escapee.

“He broke out of jail! I’m a great believer [in] you do the crime, you do the time.

“If they really want to raise money and help someone out, I can think of about 1000 people out there who need real help!”

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