More than 400 people attended a follow-up street meeting on Sunday afternoon to express their views and receive an update on the proposed site of a commuter car park at Jannali.
The turnout was double the number expected by organisers and provided a clear indication of the depth of community feeling.
The car park site chosen by the state government, behind shops on the western side of Jannali station, will require the compulsory acquisition of nine homes and have an enormous impact on residents in surrounding properties.
It has been a very long time since a community issue in Sutherland Shire has evoked such a response.
Police cordoned off Mary Street for the meeting, which heard acquisition papers had been served on the home owners, giving them 172 days to agree on a price.
The absence of Miranda MP Eleni Petinos was signified by an empty chair with her name on it.
Tom Richards, a leader of newly formed community group, Save Our Homes - Jannali 2226, said Ms Petinos was formally invited, but her office had not replied by Friday afternoon.
"This absence is causing unnecessary pain to this community and growing frustration," he said.
"The lack of contact is a void in leadership that this situation sorely needs,.
"We need Ms Petinos to come and meet with the residents, to see the implications of this decision and to help guide the way forward to a rational outcome.
"As constituents, we shouldn't have to ask for representation, we expect it."
Mr Richards warned residents could be in for a long battle.
"This is not a one-week process - this could go for six months," he said.
Mayor Steve Simpson told the crowd, "This is your Castle, and truly you have to defend it".
Cr Simpson spoke of his meeting on Thursday with Transport Minister Andrew Constance, which will result in Transport for NSW officials visiting the shire this week to look at alternative sites proposed by the council.
"I can't promise you they will have a solution, but I believe the minister understands your problem and he will ensure they will work with council staff to find an appropriate site," he said.
Liam, a resident whose home is to be acquired said, "This is a very emotional time for us".
"One thing we are getting from it is our fellow Australians find this unacceptable," he said.
"Australia is a country which is known for its fair go. This is not a fair go.
"We haven't been respected, we haven't been treated fairly. All we are asking is for the politicians at various levels to get together and have another look at this."