In brief
Licola, a small town with a population of just five, is for sale, leading to distress among residents who fear for its future. Once a vibrant community hub run by the Lions Club, locals express concern that the sale could lead to commercialization and the loss of a beloved space. The town faces its potential sale at a price up to A$10 million, while the owner of the only general store pleads to preserve its spirit.
Nestled in the rugged Victorian bushland, the town of Licola, with a mere population of five, is reportedly for sale with an asking price between A$6 million and A$10 million. The sale, initiated by the local Lions Club, which has owned the town since 1968, has stirred outrage among residents and community members, who fear that it may end up in the hands of developers.The Lions Club, facing financial difficulties and declining attendance at camps, made the decision to sell after a review of its operations. The sale includes essential facilities such as a general store, caravan park, and petrol station, which have served as vital resources for travelers on routes to the Alpine National Park.Leanne O'Donnell, who runs the Licola General Store and is the only full-time resident with her family, expressed heartache at the thought of losing her community. When I first moved here, people said I wasn’t going to make a million dollars, but I didn’t come here for that; it’s about the community,” she said, reflecting on the supportive environment the town has nurtured over the years.The sale has sparked a wave of petitions, with over 8,000 signatures calling for the lease renewal to allow O'Donnell to remain. Local sentiment runs deep, with many feeling that the sale undermines the town’s legacy of supporting disadvantaged youth and fostering community spirit. The debate continues amid growing anxieties about the future direction of Licola.
