The future of one of the most loved tourist attractions in the Adelaide Hills is under careful consideration, with the owner of the Big Rocking Horse in Gumeracha opening up about a deeply personal crossroads.
Mell Penno, who bought the iconic park with her husband two and a half years ago, says they have poured everything into restoring and growing the attraction but are now facing tough decisions after receiving devastating health news late last year.
“My husband and I have been pouring everything we have back into this iconic park since we bought it two and a half years ago,” she wrote on Facebook.
“We love this park, the nostalgia, seeing people making precious memories and most of all welcoming visitors from near and far.”
“We got some very devastating health news a few weeks before Christmas and just don’t know what the future holds at this stage.”
They are now weighing up two difficult options, hiring a manager to run the day-to-day operations while she is needed elsewhere, or finding a buyer who would care for the park in the same way she and her husband have.
“I am the managing director of this iconic park, I literally manage every aspect of it, and this is where I am asking for your help in deciding what to do,” she said.
“Do I hire a manager to manage things when I am needed elsewhere, or find someone to buy this iconic park? I would only sell to someone who loves it as much as us.”
The Big Rocking Horse has been a fixture in the Hills for more than four decades, and Mell says protecting its future has always been at the heart of why they took on the business.
“This park has been around for 44 years and our whole mission in buying it is to see it around for at least another 50 years,” she wrote. “I take being the owner of this icon very seriously.”
Despite the uncertainty, Mell reassured visitors the gates are not closing any time soon.
“Regardless, we are still here doing all the improvements and upgrades and will never stop,” she said. “This park will never close on our watch, we promise you all.”
The post has prompted an outpouring of support from locals and visitors, with many sharing memories of growing up with the Big Rocking Horse and encouraging Mell to take the time and care she needs.
For now, Mell says the decision is still unfolding, but one thing remains clear – the future of the Big Rocking Horse will continue to be guided by love for the landmark and the community it serves.
Hear Mell Penno’s chat with ARN’s Adam and Jennie via Sound Cloud.
