Plan for pop-up beach bar at Port Willunga frustrates locals
Plans for a pop-up bar and live music on the foreshore at Port Willunga have frustrated some residents — however, the organiser says they have nothing to fear.
Plans for a pop-up bar and live music on the foreshore at Port Willunga have infuriated local residents who say it would be “detrimental” to the area.
However, organiser Justin McCarthy from the Australian Trade Alliance said locals have nothing to worry about.
The Australian Trade Alliance is seeking permission from Onkaparinga Council to host summer pop-ups featuring a bar, eatery and live music at Port Willunga and Christies Beach for the next two summers — following a successful event at Christies Beach in 2017.
The council has contacted 102 nearby residents and invited the community to provide feedback on the idea, which will be presented to elected members before they make a decision.
The Summer at Port Willunga event would be held in the paved area below the carpark and run from December 23 to January 9 with its hours of operation being:
• Monday to Thursday: Noon to 10.30pm.
• Friday to Saturday: 7am to midnight.
• Sunday: 7am to 9pm.
It has raised the ire of locals who are afraid of excessive noise and drunken behaviour.
Friends of Port Willunga chairwoman Stephanie Johnston said she was “asking lots of questions” about the nature of the event and how noise and alcohol would be managed.
She said she did not understand why it was necessary given there were already events, such as markets, held on the beach by local businesses during summer.
“There are concerns that an outsider is coming in and cashing in on the busiest time of the year,” Ms Johnston said.
“What is the reason for this when local businesses are already running homegrown events, which are sensitive to the community.
“(I don’t know) what kind of music, how often and how loud it will be.”
Resident Robert MacKirdy said the event “ran contrary to everything people come to Port Willunga for”.
He said the music would be an “offence” to those nearby.
“There is nothing good to be gained by granting this proposal and a lot that will be detrimental to the ambience and reputation of Port Willunga,” he said.
Mr MacKirdy said at least another 12 residents had written to the council in opposition to the plan.
However, Mr McCarthy said it was all about showcasing the beauty of Port Willunga and that residents had nothing to fear.
He said there would be no “doof doof” music and there would only be live music at weekends.
“We are locals (and) Summer at Port Willunga is all about activating our coastline for a very limited period,” Mr McCarthy said.
“It’s about showcasing our amazing beaches and giving the local residents, visitors and tourists something to do when they visit the beach.”
He said the music would mainly be hits from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s to contribute to the atmosphere.
“Volume and timing for this is all well within the parameters set by licensing,” he said.
“Amplified music will only be from directional speakers, which eliminates sound travel.
“We promise to give the locals good food, good drinks and great music in a safe, family friendly environment while enjoying our amazing coastline.”
Locals can provide feedback to the council via yoursay.onkaparinga.sa.gov.au
