Southgate Showdown: Aldi Rumours Send Shoppers Into Meltdown

Finn Seabrook | Local Correspondent | Sutherland Shire Gazette

10 February 2025

Rumours are running wild in Sylvania, with local Facebook groups in meltdown over claims that Aldi is set to move into Southgate Shopping Centre—a move that could see Kmart halve its footprint and Woolworths shrink into a glorified corner store.

“I just don’t see where I’m supposed to get my ninth throw blanket, six-pack of candles, and a $4 thermal water bottle if Kmart gets smaller,” fumed lifelong Kmart enthusiast Deb from Oyster Bay. 

Meanwhile, Aldi lovers are celebrating, thrilled at the prospect of getting their groceries alongside inflatable kayaks, thermal socks, chainsaws, and a lifesize statue of a mountain goat —all in one convenient aisle.

“I walked in for some milk last week and walked out with a welding kit and a robotic mop,” said Greg from Sylvania Waters. “Best $79 I ever spent.”

Long-time Woolworths shoppers are less than thrilled. “A ‘Metro’? So what, a single aisle of overpriced ready meals?” asked Karen from Miranda, clutching her reusable bags like a protest banner. “If I wanted to feel disappointed in a grocery store, I’d go to 7-Eleven.”

Facebook community groups are on fire with speculation. “Southgate is ruined.” other speculate “Southgate is saved.” 

While Southgate management remains tight-lipped, armchair analysts are convinced this is a done deal. “Aldi’s coming, it’s inevitable,” said one local. 

For now, Southgate remains unchanged, but locals are already bracing for the inevitable Black Friday-level chaos when Aldi eventually lands. And the only certainty is that Sutherland Shire shoppers will continue buying things they don’t need—just from slightly different locations.