Development could leave southern Adelaide identity, Gary the Goat, homeless — but 5000 people oppose plans to move the animal
THE Adelaide goat with an identity crisis faces being struck from his flock — but residents are fighting to save the southern suburbs identity. A Facebook page set up in his name has attracted thousands of fans.
SOUTHERN Adelaide celebrity Gary the Goat — who thinks he is a kangaroo — faces eviction from the Seaford Meadows farmland he calls home.
But more than 5000 people have signed a petition opposing development at his prominent Commercial Rd home.
Renewal SA is calling for expressions of interest for the 42ha vacant block on Commercial Rd, which is owned by the South Australian Housing Trust.
The land is zoned for residential use and can fit about 750 homes.
Gary the Goat, who is believed to be suffering an identity crisis, has roamed the paddocks with resident roos and become something of a local treasure.
A Facebook page created as a tribute to the animal, “Leave Gary The Goat Alone”, has amassed more than 4800 “likes”.
Head petitioner Charlotte Collins said she would present the petition, along with a written version, to State Parliament and Onkaparinga Council.
Ms Collins said Commercial Rd was “busy enough as it is” and residents did not want Gary’s home “ruined”.
“I’ve lived across the road for six months and the reason we are trying to stop the development is Commercial Rd is busy enough as it is,” Ms Collins said.
“My kids enjoy looking at Gary the Goat, who is quite famous, and the kangaroos too, and we don’t really want to ruin their home and we don’t want more houses on that road.
“If the kangaroos were to be moved the goat probably wouldn’t be moved with them, because he’s not classed as a native animal.”
Renewal SA was contacted for comment.