Future of Fleurieu Gin at Myponga under a cloud due to neighbour complaints

The future of a $2 million dollar distillery and function space in Adelaide’s south is in limbo and faces ongoing complaints from a neighbour.

The future of a $2 million dollar distillery and function space in Adelaide’s south is in limbo with its owners unable to secure a liquor licence due to ongoing complaints from a neighbour.

Fleurieu Gin co-founder Shane Magor said his new Myponga business has remained closed due to the persistent objections of Dr Graeme Siggs, from nearby Wattle Flat.

Mr Magor has twice received development approval for the distillery by the Fleurieu Regional Assessment Panel, despite appeals from Dr Siggs over a range of issues including noise, traffic, fire risks, and environmental concerns.

In February, Mr Magor lodged an application with Consumer and Business Services for a liquor licence but a final decision has yet to be made, with Mr Siggs continuing his opposition to the project.

The distillery was given a one-day permit to trade on December 27, and Mr Magor has applied for another on January 3, ahead of a hearing in the liquor licensing appeals court on January 9.

Shane Magor at his new project, Fleurieu Gin, at Myponga, SA. Picture: Supplied

Shane Magor's new business Fleurieu Gin at Myponga, SA. Picture: Supplied

The ongoing delays have cost hundreds of thousands of dollars in legal fees, said Mr Magor, who has self-funded the venture.

“This process is mind blowingly stupid,” said Mr Magor, who had hoped to start trading before Christmas.

“We are in a tourist location, and we’re unable to open up because of red tape.”

While criticising “one person” for issues and delays, Mr Magor added: “The majority of people are in support of Fleurieu Gin and want it and think it’s good for the area.”

Fleurieu Gin, on Forktree Road, Myponga, includes a distillery, cellar door, restaurant/cafe and a function centre for up to 200 people.

In previous submissions to authorities opposing the project, Dr Siggs said that the development was “nothing more than an entertainment (function/event) venue attached to a boutique gin distillery” in a rural zone.

Fleurieu Gin at Myponga, SA. Picture: Supplied

Inside Fleurieu Gin at Myponga, SA. Picture: Supplied

Bottles of Fleurieu Gin at Myponga, SA. Picture: Supplied

Dr Siggs has also claimed that there is “significant local opposition” to the venture on the grounds that it will “adversely affect the amenity of this peaceful rural living location”.

A former real estate agent, Mr Magor said Fleurieu Gin has the potential to be one of the region’s top hospitality destinations with significant economic benefits and employment opportunities for locals.

But the site remains closed and in recent weeks he’s had to turn away up to 300 bookings.

“It’s had a big impact on me. I’ve had to sell almost everything and redraw on my house. Everything is invested in this project,” Mr Magor said.

“I get emotional thinking about it. There’s stress on the marriage, there’s financial stress, I’m not sleeping... it’s been huge.”

A Consumer and Business Services spokesman said: “This matter has been referred to the Licensing Court for determination and it would therefore be inappropriate to comment.”

Dr Siggs has been contacted for comment.

Originally published as Future of Fleurieu Gin at Myponga under a cloud due to neighbour complaints