The moment Claremont socialites almost came to blows in parking spot row
Sydney Morning Herald
by Rebecca PeppiattFebruary 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The streets of Claremont, a wealthy suburb in Perth, were briefly shaken by a heated confrontation between two prominent neighbors over a parking spot. Architect Louise St John Kennedy, 74, faced her 81-year-old neighbor, rheumatologist Dr. Prudence Manners, in a clash that nearly turned violent and was captured on mobile phone footage. The incident occurred after months of escalating tensions, with Kennedy eventually arrested and charged, though she was later found not guilty of assault. The case highlights the potential for even minor disputes to escalate into serious conflicts, particularly in affluent areas where pride and resources are often at stake.
The disagreement began when Manners moved into a property designed by Kennedy in early 2024. A shared driveway was established with specific parking rules, but Manners repeatedly parked in restricted areas, ignoring Kennedy’s polite requests. The situation worsened as the two exchanged heated text messages, with tensions boiling over during an emergency vet trip for Kennedy’s dog. Footage from the confrontation showed Kennedy confronting Manners, waving what she claimed was a ruler but Manners described as a knife. While physical altercations were not captured on video, both parties accused each other of aggressive behavior, with Kennedy citing Manners’ remarks about her dog as the catalyst for her outburst.
The trial revealed a deepening divide between the two neighbors, with text messages showing Kennedy’s growing exasperation and attempts to maintain civility. Despite her efforts to resolve the issue amicably, the situation spiraled into a legal battle, drawing attention to the broader implications of property disputes in strata-titled complexes. The case underscores how even minor disagreements over shared resources can lead to significant conflicts, particularly when emotions run high.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/14/2026