Licola Village Listed for Sale Following Lease Termination

Leanne O’Donnell, who invested $400,000 in a caravan park and general store in Licola, Victoria, recently had her lease terminated by the Lions Club. The Lions Club, which has owned and operated the village for over 50 years, ordered O'Donnell to vacate the premises by a specified Saturday. Following this decision, the entire village of Licola has been listed for sale with an estimated price of $6-10 million.

Background on Lease Termination

The Licola Wilderness Village, operated by the Lions Club, cited a $50,000 maintenance loss as the reason for terminating O'Donnell's lease. O'Donnell stated that her business was viable, indicating she was "getting by" and not experiencing a loss.

O'Donnell stated that her business was viable, indicating she was "getting by" and not experiencing a loss.

The termination also significantly affected long-term caravanners, some of whom had annual setups in the park for decades. Additionally, the local Australia Post service, which was operated through O'Donnell's store, ceased on January 23 following the lease non-renewal.

Reasons for Town Sale

The Licola Wilderness Village board issued a statement indicating that a strategic review found the current facility-based model unsustainable. Reasons cited for this decision included increasing financial pressures, aging accommodation and infrastructure, reduced school and camp participation, rising insurance costs, and limited capacity for reinvestment.

The Lions Club stated that the decision to sell was made with a focus on its enduring mission.

The Lions Club stated the decision to sell was made to protect its legacy by investing directly in a larger number of children through a more flexible and sustainable support model, rather than in buildings and infrastructure.

O'Donnell's Current Situation

Following the termination of her lease, O'Donnell stated she is moving into a caravan. She is currently attempting to sell her equipment and stock from the former caravan park and general store, with hopes to recover approximately $100,000 from these sales.