A Historic Clash in Mount Gambier: Will a Beloved Landmark Fall?
The iconic dolomite walls of a flour mill, a silent witness to over 140 years of Mount Gambier's history, are now facing an uncertain future. Developers, with ambitious plans for a multi-million dollar commercial and housing project, are proposing the demolition of these historic structures. But here's where it gets controversial: this decision has ignited a passionate debate among residents and historians who are fighting to preserve this tangible link to the past.
These walls, standing tall at six meters, are more than just stone; they're a symbol of Mount Gambier's heritage. Constructed from locally sourced dolomite and limestone, they embody the unique character of the region's architecture. The Mount Gambier History Group, led by president Megan McKenzie, expresses deep disappointment at the prospect of losing this cherished landmark. They fear that its destruction would mean erasing a significant piece of their shared history. Ms. McKenzie emphasizes that the community's concern lies specifically with the facade, which they believe should be preserved, regardless of the development behind it.
A History of Change: The site, once home to a flour mill, has seen various transformations over the years, most recently housing a hardware store. Mossop Construction unveiled its proposal in 2024, envisioning an 82-room hotel, townhouses, and a commercial precinct. While the initial plans, approved by the Limestone Coast Southern Regional Assessment Panel, included preserving the heritage-listed wall, a subsequent application has been filed. This new application cites structural concerns, claiming the wall is unsafe and severely degraded.
According to assessments available on the PlanSA website, architects have suggested that retaining the wall would require extensive and complex structural work. Instead, they recommend reusing salvaged stones in the new design to honor the heritage. The cost comparison is striking: repairing the wall is estimated at $2.25 million, while demolition is projected to cost only $118,000.
Preservation vs. Progress: Photographer Ockert Le Roux is among those who question the developers' commitment to preservation. He argues that the cost and time required to ensure the wall's safety and integrate it into the new buildings should not be prohibitive. He also points out that the wall's beauty has been obscured by years of grey paint, hiding the beautiful pink limestone that Mount Gambier is known for. He supports the development but wants the wall's heritage to be a central feature.
The City of Mount Gambier has stated that it will not lodge a submission regarding the application, respecting the independence of the assessment panel. The public has until midnight Tuesday, January 20, to make representations regarding the application on the PlanSA portal.
What do you think? Are the developers right to propose demolition, or should the historic walls be saved at all costs? Do you believe the proposed solution of reusing the stones is a fitting compromise? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
