'Like The Castle': Restaurant owners launch petition against land grab

A group of restaurant owners in the Adelaide Hills has launched a public petition urging the South Australian government to reconsider its plans to acquire land for a new school, citing concerns over the impact on a beloved local establishment. The dispute centers around the proposed $61.1 million preschool and primary school project, which would occupy a 5.5-hectare parcel in Mount Barker’s southeast, including the site of the Thai restaurant Wok the Duck. The decision has sparked outrage among local developers and residents, with some comparing the situation to the 2003 Australian comedy film The Castle, which satirized bureaucratic red tape and land disputes. The restaurant, owned by David Keir and his partner, has been operating under a nine-year lease since 2022. According to reports, the owners sold their family home to fund the venture, highlighting the personal stakes involved. Their efforts have resonated beyond the local community, drawing widespread attention on social media platforms. A video posted on Facebook detailing their plight has amassed over 400,000 views, while supporters from around the globe have expressed solidarity through online messages and petitions. Keir described the overwhelming response as “measured in people coming in the shop,” noting that thousands visited the restaurant over the weekend, with inquiries even reaching individuals in the United Kingdom. In response, the restaurant owners initiated a formal petition calling for the government to temporarily halt the land acquisition and explore alternative locations for the school. During a recent interview, Keir questioned the transparency behind the selection process, stating that officials had reviewed 16 potential sites but had not disclosed which ones were considered. He remarked, “It’s actually like the Castle. To me, something doesn’t smell right.” The sentiment reflects growing skepticism toward the government’s decision-making process, particularly given the emotional and economic significance of the restaurant to the area. Local political figures have also voiced support for the petition. Independent MP Matt Schultz, who has signed the initiative, has requested a meeting with the education minister to gain further insight into the site selection criteria. In a statement, Schultz emphasized the restaurant’s role in supporting the community, especially during crises such as the 2019 bushfires and the pandemic. He noted that the establishment had contributed significantly to local charities, including the Uniting Church’s Hungry No More program. “These are people that are contributing back to our community and they need to be supported,” he said. Meanwhile, the state’s housing minister, Nick Champion, confirmed that the government would engage directly with the restaurant owners to discuss relocation assistance. He stated that a dedicated team within the department would be assigned to facilitate the transition, ensuring the business receives adequate support. However, Keir has indicated that he does not intend to relocate, expressing confidence that the current arrangement could be preserved through negotiation. The education minister, Lucy Hood, acknowledged that 16 alternative sites had been assessed but were ultimately not selected due to “various reasons.” She reiterated that the decision aimed to serve the broader interests of the Mount Barker community. Despite these assurances, the controversy continues to unfold, with ongoing discussions between stakeholders and the possibility of further public engagement. As the situation develops, the outcome will likely hinge on whether the government is willing to accommodate the concerns of local businesses and residents in its planning processes.