The owners of a popular Aston Hills restaurant have launched a community campaign after learning their business will have to make way for the State Government’s new Mount Barker preschool and primary school.
Family-run restaurant Wok The Duck, overlooking the lake at Aston Hills, shared an emotional video on social media overnight, telling customers they had been informed the site had been selected for the new education development.
The announcement comes just a day after the State Government confirmed a 5.5-hectare site off Heysen Boulevard and Aston Parade had been identified for the new $61.1 million preschool and primary school, which is expected to open in 2030.
Owners say they were shocked by the news.
In the video, David Keir is standing with his daughter and co-owner Ebony Moyle and her husband Dan Moyle, saying they were contacted by state government representatives and told the restaurant would need to make way for the project.
“We sold our family home to build Wok The Duck,” the team wrote in a social media post accompanying the video.
“We’ve poured our hearts into this place, and now the State Government wants to take it away.”
The restaurant, which serves Thai fusion cuisine, opened in September 2024 and has built a strong following in the region. The family says it has worked to create a community gathering place, hosting markets, live music and local events.
The owners also say they have nine years remaining on their lease and have now launched a paper petition at the restaurant, calling on the Government to reconsider the location of the school.
Within hours, the social media post attracted thousands of reactions, with many customers expressing support and offering to sign the petition. Other local businesses, including the Oakbank Hotel, have also indicated they will help collect signatures.
On Wednesday, Education Minister Lucy Hood announced the Aston Hills site had been selected following extensive assessments of the area.
The new school will cater for an initial 350 primary school students and provide up to 100 preschool places, with planning and design now underway ahead of construction expected to begin in 2028.
The State Government says the project is part of its broader investment in education infrastructure to support Mount Barker’s growing population.
UPDATE: 12.30pm Friday: Minister Hood has responded to the news with a statement.
Minister Hood said in response that the Department for Education and Department for Infrastructure and Transport considered 16 sites during extensive evaluations of the area.
“The location identified is close to essential infrastructure and services, meets transport and parking requirements and has pedestrian and cycling links to improve community access, Minister Hood said.
“Importantly, the 5.5-hectare site provides capacity for future enrolment growth at the school.”
“We will work closely with this business to support their relocation over the next 18 months. A dedicated case manager will meet with Mr Keir early next week to outline help available and next steps.”
“Compensation will be considered as part of this process, including moving costs or refitting a new premises.”
“We recognise the impact this process has on any business and are committed to working with Mr Keir to support his continued operations.”
