Michael and Rita Nicolaou, who sold their 2.8 hectare Box Hill property to the NSW government for up to $27 million, have denied claims they are holding up construction of two new schools by refusing to move out.
The Minns government plans to take possession of the Terry Rd site within two weeks to meet its goal of opening Box Hill’s new primary and high schools by January 2028.
Education Department sources told The Daily Telegraph the Nicolaou’s asked for a six-month extension, but the couple insist they only requested “one more month.”
“We’re not against the school,” Rita Nicolaou said, adding that heavy rain and delays in relocating their animals had slowed their move.
“The thing is that when we were acquired, (the department) were in no rush, and they said we could stay here… until they’re ready.”
The Nicolaou’s said they only received full payment “a couple of months ago” and accused the department of “stuffing” them around since the acquisition process began in 2019.
They also claimed the government had failed to deliver an easement promised to assist in moving their greyhounds, sheep and alpacas.
The department confirmed the couple had lived at the property rent-free since its purchase in 2023. “We have reached a critical point where construction must begin,” a spokesman said.
The government is now considering using sheriffs to evict the couple on September 16 so work can begin on facilities that will cater for 2000 students.
Source: Daily Telegraph.
