A 78-year-old grandmother who was arrested for trespassing while protesting the controversial North Adelaide Golf Course development has hit back at Premier Peter Malinauskas after he labelled her an 'extremist'.
Who is Mij Tanith?
Mij Tanith, a well-known author and refugee advocate, was charged with trespass after joining a protest against the redevelopment of the North Adelaide Golf Course into a housing estate. The project has sparked significant community opposition, with critics arguing it will destroy green space and heritage values.
Tanith, who uses a walking frame, was arrested during a demonstration outside the golf course gates. Police removed her from the site after she refused to leave. She was later released on bail and is due to appear in court next month.
Premier's comments spark outrage
Premier Malinauskas described the protesters as 'extremists' in a press conference, saying they were 'holding the city to ransom' and 'delaying much-needed housing'. Tanith responded, 'I'm a 78-year-old granny with a walking frame. I'm hardly an extremist. I'm fighting for our community's green space.'
The Premier's comments have drawn criticism from advocacy groups and opposition MPs, who accused him of 'demonising peaceful protesters'. Tanith said she was 'disappointed but not surprised' by the Premier's remarks.
The protest and its context
The North Adelaide Golf Course redevelopment has been a flashpoint in South Australian politics. The state government plans to convert part of the course into hundreds of new homes, citing housing affordability and urban density goals. Opponents argue the course is a vital public asset and that the development will harm the local environment.
Tanith, who has been involved in refugee advocacy for decades, said she joined the protest out of concern for the community. 'This is not just about a golf course. It's about protecting our public spaces for future generations.'
She added, 'I've been called many things in my life, but 'extremist' is a new one. It just shows how out of touch the Premier is.'
Tanith's arrest has galvanised the protest movement, with supporters planning further demonstrations. A petition against the development has garnered more than 10,000 signatures.
The court case is expected to be closely watched, with Tanith vowing to fight the charge. 'I will not be silenced,' she said. 'This is a matter of principle.'
