Sam ‘the Honey Man’ forced to cease trading by the council
KELLYVILLE identity Sam “the Honey Man” Habibi relocated his roadside honey stall after the road was widened but latest venture has also been shut down because it doesn’t have council approval.
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Kellyville identity Sam “the Honey Man” Habibi has been pushed out of his regular spot along Samantha Riley Drive, due to road widening, and has relocated to Glenhaven Rd, Glenhaven, past the Bannerman Rd roundabout.
Now, it seems Mr Habibi’s relocated stall will have to close.
A Hills Shire Council spokesman said safety concerns had been identified involving people visiting the site and vehicles entering and exiting a nature strip.
“Given the height of the concrete slab on the road reserve, there is also concern this could create a trip hazard,” he said.
“As there is no approval for this structure, (the) council requested Mr Habibi cease using this location to trade by Friday, October 14.
“Generally, roadside stalls must have consent, can’t be on the road reserve and can only sell produce which is derived from the property.’’
Mr Habibi, 79, has been selling his honey for more than a decade.
“I moved down here because I couldn’t sell my honey on Samantha Riley Drive, due to the road widening, and now a ranger has come and said I will have to get rid of my stall because it has no council approval,’’ Mr Habibi said.
“Unbelievable! I have been doing this for about 14 years, and nobody has bothered me before.”
Mr Habibi said he cannot stand as long as he used to because of a bad back, “so if I have to go, I will go”.
He has about 18 hives at his home and sells his honey as a hobby.
“It basically gives me something to do, and gets me out of the house,” he said.
“I really enjoy selling it to everyone, as I love to make people happy.
“If people see me and that makes them happy, then that is what makes me happy.”
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