Nestled in the rugged Victorian bushland, Licola is one of Australia's smallest towns with a population of just five. This quaint town, featuring a couple of weatherboard buildings, a general store, a caravan park, and a petrol station, is currently available for purchase, much to the dismay of its tight-knit residents. Privately owned by a local community club, Licola has been a vital pit stop for travelers heading to the Alpine National Park and has a notable history of hosting outreach programs for youth.
Regrettably, the local Lions Club, which has operated the town since acquiring it in 1968, cited financial strains as the reason for putting it up for sale. The news, revealed to locals in late 2025, has raised immediate concerns from residents and nearby communities fearing a loss of their beloved town. Resident Leanne O'Donnell, who runs the General Store, has expressed her unwavering love for Licola while grappling with the reality of a looming eviction.
O'Donnell's passion for the community shines through as she strives to provide a 'home away from home' for visitors, but the uncertainty surrounding the sale raises critical questions about the town's future. With a petition to retain O'Donnell’s lease gaining traction and community outrage growing, stakeholders express skepticism about the Lions Club's decision-making process in light of rising operational costs.
As the community rallies to protect their home, it is yet to be determined who will purchase Licola and what changes, if any, those owners might implement. The situation remains fluid, revealing the deep-seated value the community places on their unique identity.
Regrettably, the local Lions Club, which has operated the town since acquiring it in 1968, cited financial strains as the reason for putting it up for sale. The news, revealed to locals in late 2025, has raised immediate concerns from residents and nearby communities fearing a loss of their beloved town. Resident Leanne O'Donnell, who runs the General Store, has expressed her unwavering love for Licola while grappling with the reality of a looming eviction.
O'Donnell's passion for the community shines through as she strives to provide a 'home away from home' for visitors, but the uncertainty surrounding the sale raises critical questions about the town's future. With a petition to retain O'Donnell’s lease gaining traction and community outrage growing, stakeholders express skepticism about the Lions Club's decision-making process in light of rising operational costs.
As the community rallies to protect their home, it is yet to be determined who will purchase Licola and what changes, if any, those owners might implement. The situation remains fluid, revealing the deep-seated value the community places on their unique identity.
