It’s a common problem with wineries. Parents take the kids, become engrossed in conversation and vino, and let the kids run amuck.
Plenty of venues around SA have publicly requested for parents not to use their venues as unsupervised playgrounds. But for this Adelaide Hills hotspot, it seems like there was some behaviour on the weekend that proved to be the final straw.
This led to a tongue-in-cheek Facebook post that announced that ‘children’s activities’ (read, bad behaviour) will now be charged. The statement, on their Facebook page, went viral on the weekend.
“It’s with a heavy heart that we cannot longer subsidise the free children’s activities at Lost in a Forest, so going forward these will be charged.” read the Facebook post.
Retaining Rock Wall
“A favourite with the children, dismantling our retaining wall whilst being watched by mum and dad, will now be $20 per stone. If one or more parents are watching it will be a rate of $40 per stone. Or buy the Family rate of $200 and remove the top layer.”
Garden Fun
“Agapanthus leaves will be $5 a frond. Or get a season pass and have unlimited access to pulling the plants apart for $100.”
Pond Pond Crate
“What was once free, we’ll have to start charging for throwing milk crates in the pond. At only $3 a crate it’s one of our more affordable activities. Parents can watch for only $2 a crate.”
Chip Away!
“And finally an Autumn special! Pry off the sight impairment coins from the pavers and using them to scratch away the grout in the 130 year old building. $10 per coin for a 10min session on your wall stone of choice. Parents turning a blind eye can also enjoy for $8 a coin.”
They also posted a video which highlighted the result of the unsupervised behaviour over the weekend.
“We’re hoping that these activities won’t be as popular as in past years.” the post read.
After reading their post, we’re really dismayed to see such a beautiful venue treated in such a way. Whilst we doubt they’ll actually be serving up invoices, it serves as a good reminder to us all to make sure children are supervised – and certainly not running amuck.
While a couple of people were outraged by the thought of actually having to look after their kids, most people in the comments were highly supportive of the venue.
“Our children were brought up to respect other people’s property. Please everyone do the same. From a loving mother.” said Iris
“Well said, and yes, enforce this so we don’t end up with a world of entitled brats. It’s the repair costs that people just don’t understand and then complain if we put our prices up to compensate.” agreed Gianna.
There were also a number of businesses supporting Lost In A Forest in the comments, including At Lenswood Pick Your Own and Adelaide Hills Berry Farm.
If you want to enjoy one of the beautiful wineries we have in SA, why don’t you book a babysitter?
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