A packed community soup gathering in Castlemaine last Thursday night has signalled growing opposition to a proposed McDonald’s, with residents officially launching the Mac Off – Protect Castlemaine campaign.
Young people involved in the recent Kids Against Maccas rally joined local business owners and residents at the Healthy Food, Not Fast Food event, united in their opposition to the fast-food giant’s planned development.
The campaign formed after community members learnt McDonald’s had purchased the vacant corner block at Forest and Hargraves streets.
Organisers say the movement is about protecting Castlemaine’s unique identity, supporting local businesses and ensuring any future planning application is carefully scrutinised.
Business Mount Alexander chair Jacqueline Brodie-Hanns said a McDonald’s on the site would fundamentally change the character of the town.
“A McDonald’s in Castlemaine – especially on that site – is just wrong on so many counts,” she said.
“It would have an adverse impact on the look and feel of our town and the important role Castlemaine plays as an independent, culturally rich destination renowned for its small food and drink producers.”
Ms Brodie-Hanns said the development could also increase traffic congestion and create safety risks for pedestrians and cyclists, particularly schoolchildren.
“The introduction of a global chain would remove business from the town’s independent cafes and family-owned eateries and erode our reputation for uniqueness and innovation, forever altering the fabric of our community,” she said.
She said Business Mount Alexander was working to identify what residents would prefer to see developed on the site, with a community survey to be released soon.
Campaign organisers acknowledged many people valued the convenience of McDonald’s but said the issue extended well beyond personal food choices.
“It’s about the long-term health and wellbeing of our town,” organiser Serena Everill said.
“Everyone deserves access to healthy, nutritious and affordable food. We want to support local businesses, protect our community character and make sure the next generation grows up surrounded by healthy choices.”
The group is encouraging residents to register objections with Mount Alexander Shire Council ahead of any planning application, contact local MPs, sign an online petition and take part in future community events as the campaign gathers momentum.
Supporters can find the petition at: www.change.org/p/stop-mcdonald-s-from-opening-in-castlemaine
