Maleny Grapevine Community News and Maleny District Sports Club Results for the period to 17.10.2025
Shopping local keeps your money in your community!
“Ten Green Bottles sitting on a wall !!”
Maleny Visitors Information Centre on another social outing
How would you like to join the other “green bottles sitting on the wall”
By joining the volunteers at the Maleny Information Centre, you will meet people from near and far, learn a lot about Maleny and its surrounds, enjoy familiarisation trips to fascinating locations, learn about the history of our town, and enjoy the camaraderie of other ‘Vollies’.
You would also have the enjoyment of “telling other people where to go.” That is something that many people aspire to be able to do.
The “Vollies” would love to have you join them. To find out more, simply call into the Information Centre in Maple Street and talk to the volunteers.
Maleny Shop Local News is free local Online Newsletter published online on the first and third Friday of each month at:
https://issuu.com/maleny-grapevinecommunity-news
Why not bookmark this site and come back regularly to check out local group’s news and Maleny District Sporting results and news. For Tablet & Phone users download the ISSUU App from your app store and search for Maleny Grapevine
Over the past 30 days there have been 3741 Page Impressions with a read time of 3min 21 secs
Contact for advertising
Email thegrapevine@westnet.com.au or phone Les at Maleny Paint Supplies on 54942002.
Remember Taggerty Ann
Raggerty Ann is a character created by American writer Johnny Gruelle (1880–1938) that appeared in a series of books he wrote and illustrated for young children.
Raggedy Ann is a rag doll with red yarn for hair and a triangle nose.
Planning work for Landsborough-Maleny Road and Maleny-Montville Road intersection ongoing. Planning work is still underway for work at the dangerous Landsborough-Maleny Road and Maleny-Montville Road intersection in Maleny. Survey work has recently been done prior to the planning part of this Department of Transport and Main Roads, Queensland beginning.
Local State Member, Mr Andrew Powell said, “Upgrades to this intersection are long overdue.” To find out more visit: https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/projects/ landsborough-maleny-road-and-maleny-montville-roadintersection-improve-safety.
Tradition Meets Innovation in Maleny
The Maleny Agricultural Show in May has been a cornerstone of the Hinterland calendar since 1922, celebrating community pride, agricultural excellence, and rural traditions. This muchloved event continues to bring families, farmers, and visitors together for competitions, displays, and entertainment that showcase the best of country life.
In 2025, the Show Society is introducing a second major event: Maleny Farm Fest, on Saturday 22 November at the Maleny Showgrounds. Farm Fest is a free event that adds a fresh dimension to the annual calendar. While the May Agricultural Show celebrates tradition and competition, Farm Fest highlights practical learning, innovation, and hands-on experiences to educate, equip, and empower.
Visitors can enjoy a full day of experiences — from exhibits, demonstrations, youth activities, and expert talks to the Bush BBQ Challenge, Pallet Build-Off, and the family-friendly Passport Quest.
With plenty of food stalls, local produce, coffee, cold drinks, and shaded areas to relax, Maleny Farm Fest is designed for people of all ages to settle in, explore, and make a day of it.
Maleny Farm Fest welcomes everyone from across the Sunshine Coast and beyond. Whether you’re a farmer, a foodie, or simply curious about where your food and fibre come from, you’ll find interactive activities, new ideas, and a vibrant festival atmosphere.
Two great events, one proud region: Maleny’s past and future come together in a year-round celebration of community and agriculture.
The Maleny Agricultural Show Society is proud to announce that Expressions of Interest are now open for the 2026 Maleny Showgirl and Rural Ambassador Competitions, proudly run as part of the Trailblazers Maleny program.
This long-standing competition celebrates rural leadership and provides young people with opportunities to grow in confidence, public speaking, and community service. Participants build strong leadership skills, form valuable connections, and represent Maleny at Sub Chamber competitions, with the chance to advance to the prestigious Ekka finals in Brisbane.
Competition categories include:
Maleny RFB Volunteer group
Make sure you're prepared this bushfire season
Already, and so early in the fire season, Queenslanders have had to deal with a number of serious fires in our general area soon after October 7th
Throwing lit cigarette butts from vehicles is dangerous. Cigarettes can start bush and grass fires, and place lives at risk. It's also bad for the environment.
• Showgirl Program – for young women aged 18–28 with ties to agriculture and local shows.
• Rural Ambassador Program – for young men and women aged 20–30 passionate about rural life and leadership.
• Junior Rural Ambassador Program – for young men and women aged 14-17 (with parental consent) keen on agriculture
• Junior Categories – for young people aged 10–17 (with parental consent).
Entrants also become part of Trailblazers Maleny, a youth program offering workshops, industry tours, and hands-on experiences in agriculture, science, and community service.
This year’s winners are preparing displays for the Trailblazers Youth Zone at the upcoming Maleny Farm Fest on 22 November, where they will host exhibitions and share their journey. They will also represent Maleny at the Sub Chamber competition on 8th of November.
An information session will be held on 25 October at 2:30 PM at the Maleny Showgrounds. Expressions of Interest close 21 October.
For details or to register, contact: secretary@malenyshowsociety.org.au
Find out more at the Maleny Show Society web site.
Proudly sponsored by the Maleny Agricultural Show Society.
There are heavy penalties for people caught throwing lit cigarette butts from vehicles, especially during the times of increased fire danger. You can do your bit by reporting them. This ca be done at the website below: https://report-littering-dumping.ehp.qld.gov.au/ Now is the time to prepare for the coming season, it is almost upon us. Don’t leave it too late. Here are some suggestions to prepare your rural home. Structure
• Clear leaves, twigs, bark and other debris from the roof and gutters.
• Purchase and test the effectiveness of gutter plugs.
• Enclose open areas under decks and floors.
• Install fine steel wire mesh screens on all windows, doors, vents and weep holes.
• Point LPG cylinder relief valves away from the house.
• Conduct maintenance checks on pumps, generators and water systems.
• Seal all gaps in external roof and wall cladding.
“Remember - your fuel - your fire”
Around Glass house Electorate with Mr Andrew Powell M.P.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation,
Local Bush Fires have already started
A heartfelt thank you to all of the Rural Firefighters who spent their long weekend bringing a bushfire on Moreton Island under control.
With brigades from Ormeau, Tamborine Mountain, Greenbank, Pumicestone, Brookfield, Closeburn, Bonogin, Stanmore, Samsonvale, Ormeau, Rocksberg and of course, Moreton Island in attendance, it was truly a team effort.
Did you know Queensland has their own Whisky maker?
Privileged to get a sneak peek inside Stillmaker And Sons Distillery in Montville ahead of their official opening. Owners Mike and Sandra are so passionate about their craft.
POLITICAL COMMENT MADE BY
Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Amanda Camm
“The safety of victims of DFV and sexual violence is of the highest priority to the Crisafulli government and having a well-represented sector to advocate for victim safety and programs is crucial.”
Phone: (07) 5429 6750
New Office in Charge Maleny Police named
I have recently had the opportunity to Congratulate Sergeant Cameron who has recently been appointed as Sergeant Officer in Charge here at Maleny Police Station.
I can't think of anyone better for the job. Cameron is a dedicated leader who consistently goes above and beyond in serving our community. He's already been working tirelessly to implement some new community safety initiatives and build strong local relationships - and this is just the beginning.
Wishing you all the best in this next chapter, Cameron. You're a great asset to Maleny and surrounds.
Maleny Police Office phone number is54205333.
Web: https://www.conceptsystems.com.au/
Trading Hours
Monday - Friday: 9am to 5pm Saturday: 9am to 1pm
Closed Sunday & Public Holidays
Around Division 5 with Cr Winston Johnston
To contact Cr Winston Johnston winston.johnston@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au
Sunshine Coast Council minor grants
The last Sunshine Coast Council last Minor Grant round for the calendar year is now open and closes on Monday 27 October 2025.
Eligible not-for-profit organisations can now apply for up to $3,000 to deliver one-off projects, events, or activities that provide broad community benefit - an increase from $2,000 following a review of the Community Grants Program earlier in this year.
Minor Grant applications can be submitted in one of six categories:
Community Development
Community Facilities
Creative Development
Cultural Heritage
Economic Development
Sport and Recreation.
Key dates:
Round open: 22 September 2025
• Round close: 27 October 2025
• Notification: Mid-December 2025
Information and application forms can be found at: https://www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/living-and-community/grants-andfunding/grants-programs/minor-grants
Australia Day 2026 Community Awards.
Sunshine Coast Council is inviting the community to help acknowledge the everyday individuals and groups who contribute meaningfully to our region, with nominations now open for the 2026 Sunshine Coast Australia Day Community Awards.
The 2026 Sunshine Coast Australia Day Community Awards will be held on January 23.
Nominations close on November 30 and can be submitted on Council's website..
Just some local news from Fisher
Mr. Andrew Wallace Federal MP for Fisher
Fisher Community News
Parliamentarians prove they “have a heart”
Federal politicians were subjected to “A good heart check-up” by Heart Foundation in Parliament on October 9th for Heart and Stroke Health Day. It is now 25 years since the first World Heart Day.
Along with my team, we got our blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart health checked, a simple step that can make a big difference. Heart disease causes one in four deaths in Australia and costs over $14 billion a year. In Fisher, around 4,257 people are living with stroke, with lifetime costs estimated at $3.2 billion.
There is a clear link between high blood pressure and an increased risk of heart disease. It only takes ten minutes to look after your heart. Make the time; it could save your life. Living with heart disease can feel overwhelming, but small steps can make a big difference.
The warning signs of a heart attack include chest pain, arm or shoulder pain, and shortness of breath.
Why Shop Locally?
The Hinterlandgrapevine Online News Maleny Commerce News
Have you got your Local Shopping Gift Card Yet? Maleny Commerce supports local businesses
Maleny Commerce seeks to have working relationships with all local businesses and desires to create an environment of mutual concern for sustainable living and the betterment of our Maleny community.
While it may not be possible to source all our needs from our local retailers and tradesman, here are a few reasons to think twice before you make your next purchase:
It Creates local jobs and it is personal;
Shopping locally helps Australia grow;
Shopping locally gives better consumer choice and better customer service because you are shopping with a friend; Assists local businesses support local community & sporting groups; It reduces your carbon footprint
Will you really support local businesses?
About Maleny Commerce
Maleny and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. is an incorporated body representing the business community since 1986. It is now known as Maleny Commerce. The Chamber represents the local Maleny and District business community. Join us at one of our monthly business breakfasts. www.malenycommerce.org.au
One of the major items has been the “Why Leave Town” gift cards, which can be redeemed at many local businesses. The whole idea of the Why Leave Town Gift Card is that it can only be spent in the participating businesses of that town…hence keeping the money local!
To find out where they can be redeemed, visit: https://www.whyleavetown.com/community/maleny/
+ Isabelle Bryce”
https://issuu.com/Maleny-Grapevine-Community-News
“ Phyllis
Phyllis + Isabelle Bryce donated the land where Erowal Village now is situated to the Uniting Church and the Maleny Community.
Maleny Service Centre
On this day in history October 17th
On October 17th, 1900 natural gas was accidentally found at Roma in Queensland when a water bore on Hospital Hill encountered a gas blowout Whilst in 1906, gas was piped to power Roma's town lighting not a lot more happened about the discovery.
In October 1908 the Roma Mineral Oil Company’s bore at Roma struck gas at 3,680 feet and a strong wind blew the gas towards a wood burning steam boiler and the gas ignited. Increasing volumes of gas produced flames estimated to be 100 feet high.
The first major gas development followed in 1969 with the construction of the Roma to Brisbane Pipeline, Need a Roadworthy Certificate?
Maleny Service Centre have a Licenced Roadworthy Inspector on the premises and we know only too well what it takes to make your vehicle safe and roadworthy.
All vehicles (including trucks, motorbikes and trailers) must have a Safety or Roadworthy Certificate (RWC) if being sold, registered for the first time or being re-registered in Queensland. Registered Vehicles cannot be solid without a RWC.
An Old Codger’s Thoughts & Opinions
Australia becoming more lawlessness
Why is our cultural standards changing?
Some time ago, the Victorian Department of Education officially advised schools and sporting clubs in Victoria to avoid terms like “mum”, “dad”, “boyfriend”, and “girlfriend”.
This spearheaded a push in Victorian schools to curb the dropout and suicide rates of LGBTQI+ young people.
This comes as a result of sex education campaigner Chanel Contos working with the Victorian Government on lessons that she hopes will teach students about “toxic masculinity” and “slut shaming”.
The Adelaide Department of Education is also strongly trying to remove the words “boy” and “ girl” from our vocabularies. Some of the words they can be replaced with are “Cherubs”, “friends”, and “funsters” as these are examples of nongendered language.
The NSW Teachers Federation recently published a magazine article urging teachers to greet their classes as “epic humans, future leaders, intellectuals, and change-makers”.
Gender language warriors are making kids frightened to say “boy” or “girl”, with one Queensland doctor warning we risk a generation scared “to admit they are heterosexual”.
Some Victorian councils are now reportedly considering a ban on children’s books that use the words “boy” and “girl”.
What is behind the use of these creeping into Australian classrooms? Historically, “boys” and “girls” have carried strong stereotypes about behaviour, clothing, or roles. Neutral terms can help shift focus from gender to the person themselves, reducing the chance of reinforcing those stereotypes.
There is also a push for midwives to use more genderinclusive words like “chestfeeding” rather than “breastfeeding”, “feeding parent” rather than “mother”, and “peri-natal” instead of “maternity”. This push is gathering momentum, but the Australian College of Midwives is standing firm against the drive, determined they will not wipe out “women” from the health system. Wokeness replaces open inquiry with ideological conformity and makes society feel artificial, and breeds resentment rather than respect. What adult people want to do is up to them, but do not confuse our younger generations. Life can be confusing enough as it is at a younger age!!!
Truthful Jones says And he swears that it 100% true - No Bulls##t”
Truthful Jones tells us that his uncle Mick from Ireland visited him in Maleny. Uncle Mick took Mum and their son Pat to Brisbane for the first time. Mum had an appointment with a doctor, so the two men went off for a walk along Queen Street. As they passed a building, the door opened automatically. They decided to go in, having to dodge as the doors tried to close before they were properly inside.
“Gosh, Dad, I hope we can get back out again,” said Pat.
While in the auditorium, they watched as a woman, old and wrinkled, hobbled past. She made her way to a marble wall and a section of it mysteriously slid open. The woman stepped in and the wall closed behind her.
Dad and Pat stood watching as a counter above the door climbed from 0 to 20. It paused for a few moments and then counted back down to 0. There was a ‘ding’, the wall opened and a beautiful, spry young woman stepped out, walking brightly out of the building.
Dad stood, looking slackjawed at his son, Pat . Then he twigged!
“Son, go get your mother…! She needs to go into that room and come out just the same as that last lady!”
Moral: You can never put anything past those relatives who visited Truthful from Ireland can you!
Make Australia Make Again!
If you want to live in a country that builds things you have to buy things that your country builds!
Maleny Paint Supplies
6/14 Lawyer Street, Maleny. Ph 54942002
www.malenypaintsupplies.com
Australian Owned and made brands of Ultra-Premium paints for any project
Maleny Paint Supplies have most paint and accessories you would need to do that D.I.Y. project!
Stevie the Security Dog
from the Maleny Paint Shop explores further afield Stevie, the loyal tan Dachshund of Maleny Paint Supplies, took his role as security dog very seriously. Each morning, after supervising the paint shop staff with his sharp eyes and short but confident stride, he would head out on his self-declared patrol.
Customers and locals grew used to the sight of Stevie trotting across the street or slipping next door to Maleny Service Centre mechanical garage. He would proceed with his nose held high as if checking for suspicious activity. His little legs may have been small, but in his mind, he was a guardian of the entire block, ensuring peace and order in the Lawyer Street area of Maleny.
The mechanics admired his dedication. They often joked that Stevie was tougher than their guard dogs in town, claiming no thief would dare step into their garage with such a vigilant sentry on duty. Whenever Stevie marched through the workshop, tail wagging yet ears alert, it was assumed he was on official business—sniffing for danger, doublechecking the corners, and ensuring the smell of grease and oil didn’t conceal anything more sinister.
Maleny Paint Special
Mirka Dust Extractor 1125L PC
But the truth eventually surfaced. Word spread that Stevie’s socalled patrols had less to do with security and more to do with Desley, the friendly receptionist at the garage. She had discovered early on that Stevie adored liver treats, and every time he popped in, she rewarded his “patrol” with a snack. Soon enough, his commitment to regular inspections became suspiciously punctual. Staff began to notice that his sharp little nose always led him straight to Desley’s desk.
When the ruse was uncovered, no one could be angry. Stevie had blended duty with delight, keeping spirits high on both sides of the fence.
Security might have been his cover, but everyone agreed he was worth every treat. Call in and meet Stevie soon!!.
$1050
Today, health and safety issues are becoming increasingly important. As a result sanders and abrasives are made more and more efficient, with a focus on dust-free applications.
Mirka dust extractors that enable you to have a dust free system in your workshop and Mirka’s range of dust extractors meet the demands.
Hard Wax Oil for your precious woodwork will save the day!
Maleny Paint Supplies is now making stand alone cabinets made to measure
My Hints: Time to do some maintenance.
STAINING TIMBERS PRIOR TO CLEAR COATING
Where virgin timbers are presented for staining prior to coating, we recommend the following:
We at Maleny Paint Supplies understands that your kitchen is the heart of your home, and your kitchen cabinetry must not only look stunning but also maximise space, providing ample storage and meeting your specific needs. With over 30 years experience, Brett recognises the importance of exceptional-quality craftsmanship with attention to detail, best quality materials, and innovative design, ensuring that your project is delivered to your specifications. Call in and discuss your cabinet needs.
Fidders Hard Wax Oil for great finishes on wooden surfaces!!
Small Habits = Big Savings
Here’s a quick look at how to stretch your Hard Wax Oil further:
✅ Apply thin coats only — you’ll use less and get better results as oils dry from inside to the outer surface. Thick coats inhibit oil drying
✅ Scrape the tin — a spatula can recover more oil than you think, it is surprising how much product is left behind in a tin..
✅ Use StopLoss Bags — keep leftover oil fresh between uses. Leftover oil in the tin can skin over or thicken up between uses.
✅ Thin with white spirits — revive thickened oil and reduce waste. Hard Wax Oil can thicken slightly due to the coating oxidising. If that happens, don’t toss it.
Make smart usage part of your routine - it saves money!
That the stain be of a solvent based product, so that the migration of the diluent is complete before coating. Where slow evaporating diluents are used (or water), some entrapment may occur, causing bubbles to appear. During the application of the stainers, it will be necessary to go back over the applied area with solvent, to re-distribute the intensity of the stain, so that an even colour is achieved. Failure to do that will result in a blotchy unattractive finish. It has to be stated, that the stains must be applied directly to the timber, not after the surface has been sealed or primed. The distribution of colour intensity can only be achieved whilst the surface is still absorbent.
Adequate drying times must elapse before applying Northane Clear, or any of the other Norglass clear finishes.
Norglass Clear finishes such as Northane, which is a food grade rated 2 pack clear or Weatherfast clear which is a single pack clear coating. They come in a gloss - satin or matt sheen finish and have high levels of UV inhibitors.
Both products are available at Maleny Paint Supplies, 6/14 Lawyer Street, Maleny.
DEFAMATION – DEFINED AND DEFENDED?
With Tove Easton of Easton Lawyers, Maleny
Defamation concerns the public communication of words, gestures, images or acts that are likely to lower the esteem of the person to whom such communication is targeted. The Queensland Defamation Act of 2005 applies to defamatory information published on or after 1 January 2006.
For a message to be defamatory it must be communicated in some way and the Act has defined such methods of communicating as:
• an article, report, advertisement etc. communicated by a newspaper, magazine or other periodical;
• a program, report, advertisement etc. communicated by television, radio, internet or other forms of electronic communication;
• a letter, note or other writing;
• a picture, gesture or verbal utterance; and
• any other material or means by which something may be communicated to a person.
The message is deemed to be defamatory if it:
• lowers the concerned person’s reputation;
• leads others to think less of that person;
• makes others shun or avoid that person; and
• cause others to ridicule, hate or despise them.
There are several distinct defences to an action for defamation which are all noted in the Act and some of these are:
• Justification – the truth alone is the defence here;
• Absolute privilege – this defence is available when one can prove that the document was published on an occasion of absolute privilege such as parliamentary matters and publications;
• Public documents – this defence is available if the publication is from a public document and the
information was published honestly for the advancement of education or for informing the public ;
• Quali fi ed privilege – if the recipient of the defamatory matter has an interest in the information contained in the publication such as a scenario where the information was published in the course of giving that information to that person;
• Honest opinion – if the publication expresses an opinion that is honestly held by the author as opposed to a statement of fact and the opinion was based on proper material that is substantially true;
• Triviality – where the aggrieved person is unlikely to suffer any harm.
It is also worth noting that an apology made to an aggrieved person will not constitute an admission of fault or liability.
Should you have any questions, please contact our office on 07 5494 3511 Monday to Friday between 08:30 and 17:00 AEST.
Take care everyone! Easton Lawyers
Easton Lawyers are your Local Lawyers in Maleny, Sunshine Coast Hinterland, Queensland, Australia. Easton Lawyers. 62 Maple Street, Maleny. Qld. 4552 Phone. 0754943511.
P.O. Box 255 Maleny. Qld. 4552.
Email: reception@eastonlawyers.com.au
For the team at Easton Lawyers it is a privilege to help people through tough and stressful times and if the client cannot come to them this is no obstacle as home visits and/or hospital visits are a service they provide.
Translink – 131 230 It is always interesting to see what is
in other parts of the world. It is easy to explore through Online Newspapers https://onlinenewspapers.com/index.shtml
Maleny to finally get a fully fenced
dog park!
Sunshine Coast Council is constructing a new, fully fenced dog exercise area in Maleny, located off Parkland Drive near the Obi Creek trail footpath, expected to begin construction in late 2025.
It is being built in response to the growing number of registered dogs in the region and the need for expanded dog exercise facilities.
The facility will include separate sections for all dogs and smaller dogs, seating, shade trees, and a new disability-compliant footpath for access. Construction is anticipated to take about five weeks once final approvals are given and the tender process is complete.ruction is expected to begin at the end of 2025.
The construction period is estimated to be around five weeks, pending weather conditions and final approvals.
Maleny Community Groups & When they meet!
Community Groups that form the back bone of the Maleny Community
Meet 10 am on the 4th Wednesday of each month. Feb to November 1300 856 859
Queensland Country Women's Association - Maleny Branch Meetings at
The Verandah Room 23 Maple Street, Maleny 8:00 am - 11:30 am. 4th Monday of Month. Email: qcwa.maleny@gmail.com
The Zonta Club of Blackall Range Meetings at
Various between Montville and Maleny. Dinner meeting 3rd Tuesday of month 6pm. Email: membership@zontablackrange.org.au president@zontablackallrange.org.au
Being a part of a community
Apex Club of Maleny
Meeting. Times
1ST & 3RD MONDAYS, 7.00PM. Email maleny@apex.org.au. Postal PO BOX 39. MALENY, QLD 4552 0487770653
Maleny Senior Citizens Meetings at
The Verandah Room 23 Maple Street, Maleny 8:00 am - 11:30 am. 4th Monday of Month. Activities include card games, meetings and regular bus trips
Email: margarry1@bigpond.com 0409 266 507
The LIONS CLUB OF MALENYBLACKALL RANGE Inc. Meetings at
Maleny Uniting Church Hall
On the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6.30pm
Monthly Dinner Meeting held at The Orangery, 10 Mountain View Rd, at 6.30pm on 4th Tuesday of month
Email: maleny-blackall-range@lionsq3.org.au
Maleny
Commerce Meetings at
Monthly breakfast networking meetings. 2nd Tuesday of the month. Venues to be advised.
Email: info@malenycommerce.org.au
Maleny Hardware and Rural Supplies is located in the centre of Maleny in the picturesque Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Thy offer good old fashioned service to your car for those heavy items. There is also ample parking at the front and pick up at the rear of the store.
We are independently owned and supply the local community with rural and hardware supplies at competitive prices.
Did you know we can deliver items in surrounding suburbs for a small fee.
Come and browse through our extensive range of products and say hi! Now is an ideal time to check out our new
Maleny Hardware & Rural Supplies for all your sprinklers, pumps, water filtration & irrigation needs.
We supply a large range of irrigation supplies for rural and domestic use. Irrespective of your needs it is important to work out exactly what you need before you start. To do this you really have to have an idea how and where you want your garden.
To work out how many and what type of sprinklers, pop ups or drippers, you’ll need to measure the water pressure on your garden tap. This will help you choose what products you need to irrigate your garden.
We range a wide range of products to get some water into that prize garden. We can also discuss and advise about the types and quantity of products needed for the job.
We can supply a large range of the products such as those described below. Call in now to discuss your needs.
POLY PIPE: Green stripe – Rural and Blue stripe –mains pressure. Both varieties of pipe are available in sizes ranging from 13mm (1/2”) up to 50mm (2”) diameters.
PIPE FITTINGS: compression fittings, bushes, nipples, risers and many more fittings necessary for most household and acreage applications.
TANK ACCESSORIES: Covers for the pump and filters available
WATER TANKS can be ordered in at your request
https://issuu.com/Maleny-Grapevine-Community-News
The foundation of the first Australian Welfare System began with the introduction of the Commonwealth Invalid and Old-ageAge Pensions Act in 1908, This followed the Federation of Australia on the 1 st January 1901 . Various forms of state and national support were introduced between the early 1900s and the mid-1940s, including the National Welfare Fund.
ustralia has always been a land of immigrants and a multicultural society with a strong sense of social justice. Whilst it may not be definitive some researchers and anthropologists have argued that there may have been three separate population migrations into Australia prior to the aboriginal peoples arrival approximately 65000 years ago. Ever since that time the notion of a ‘fair go’ for all is deeply embedded in modern Australian culture and has always been part of its national identity. Further, there has always been a strong relationship between social work and social welfare in Australia.
AToday, Australia’s welfare system is a comprehensive network of government payments and services, primarily managed by the Australian Government and state/territory governments, to support citizens' well-being. Prior to Federation a form of financial assistance to those “who were down on their luck” was arranged by local councils or other local authorities, but nothing was actually formalised.
A more formalised scheme was introduced nationally when a national aged pension under the Invalid and Old-Aged Pensions Act of 1908 was introduced. A national invalid disability pension was started in 1910 Australia’s welfare system was then and still is one of the most generous in the world, but the present idea of providing “free everything” through welfare is unsustainable.
During WW11 the commonwealth found it necessary to enacted a child endowment scheme in 1941 and then enacted a widows' pension scheme in 1942.
From the end of the Second World War until 1975 benefits such as child endowment, unemployment, pharmaceutical, sickness and hospital benefits, medical and dental services, and student and family allowances were added to the scheme.
A nation’s budget is not limitless, and every dollar spent on welfare must be collected through taxes or borrowed, which places a burden on both the current workforce and future generations. If welfare were expanded to cover every cost of living without
contribution or responsibility, the tax base would shrink while government expenditure would soar.
This imbalance would weaken the economy, discourage productivity, and ultimately erode the very system meant to protect society’s most vulnerable.
From the end of the Second World War until 1975 the Australian governments had a policy of full employment and fostered this through The Commonwealth Employment Service. This helped to keep social service expenditure under control.
Social welfare was and is designed to be a safety net, not a permanent lifestyle. It should provide support for people facing hardship, unemployment, illness, or disability, allowing them the time and stability needed to regain independence.
Under the leadership of Gough Whitlam during the 1970’s , sthe Federal government advocated for the government to embrace the principle of social democracy. As a result a small section of the
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Australian community began looking at welfare payments as a “way of life” thus popularising the term "dole bludger", causing welfare recipients generally to be viewed as parasites upon "ordinary Australian" taxpayers. To this day the treatment of looking at welfare as a “way of life” has not only continued, but has become more blatant.
When welfare becomes a way of life, it risks trapping individuals in dependency, reducing the incentive to work, train, or contribute. This not only stifles personal ambition but also fosters generational reliance, where children grow up seeing welfare dependence as normal rather than temporary. Such cycles drain resources and limit opportunities for those who truly need urgent, short-term assistance.
Moreover, an overextended welfare state can diminish national competitiveness. Businesses and workers alike bear the higher tax burden needed to fund unlimited welfare, discouraging investment and innovation. This, in turn, slows economic growth and limits the government’s ability to provide essential services such as health, education, and infrastructure. A system that rewards effort, contribution, and responsibility is far more sustainable and fairer to both taxpayers and recipients.
Work for the Dole schemes have always been criticised and not supported by the Australian Council for Social Services and the Australian Greens describing it as cruel and punitive.
The 2016 ANU's Social Research Centre review found that work for the dole schemes improved the probability of an unemployed person finding work.
Welfare should be viewed as a helping hand— providing dignity and security in times of crisis— while encouraging pathways back into employment and self-reliance.
During the late 1980’s asset tests were gradually introduced for some of the welfare benefits paid out
By maintaining this balance, Australia can ensure that social support remains available to those who truly need it, without bankrupting the system or discouraging individual responsibility
Ultimately, welfare works best when it empowers people to stand on their own feet, rather than offering “free everything” that risks undermining both economic stability and personal independence.
In the 2021–22 financial year Australian and state and territory governments out of a total government spend of $885.5 billion spent $212.4 billion on welfare services and support. That does not cover expenses of one off projects that could really be called welfare projects.
Who Gives A Crap? - We Do!
What do we really mean when we say our toilet paper helps build toilets?
We trust that our partner organisations know how to best improve global access to proper sanitation – that means our donation could go to building toilets. To put it into perspective, a child under five dies every two minutes from diarrhoea diseases caused by poor water and sanitation.
Profits from the sale of this toilet paper is used our donation could go to building toilets, but could also mean it supports larger clean water projects.
Australia’s Banks are failing the average Aussie!!
It started with the sale of the Commonwealth Bank
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia was established on December 22, 1911, by the Labor Prime Minister Andrew Fisher and his government through the Commonwealth Bank Act 1911. It began operations on July 15, 1912, as a government-owned commercial and savings bank and was designed to serve both general and savings bank functions throughout Australia, both regional and capital cities, quickly expanding its services and taking on government functions, such as organising loans during World War I and later, central banking responsibilities.
It was favourably thought of by Aussies as “The People’s Bank” and thus garnered the loyalty of the Aussie population.
During the 1970s, the bank’s operations expanded into home insurance and travel (1974) and the following year, we formed the Commonwealth Bank’s own finance company, Commonwealth Bank Finance Corporation Ltd (CBFC).
In a desperate search to free up capital, between 1991 and 1996, the Australian Government under the Keating government fully privatised the Commonwealth Bank. In hindsight, maybe one of the worst and shortsighted decisions made by the Keating government.
Regional bank branches were highly regarded in regional towns and branch managers were also highly regarded and many businesses sought advice about that business’s direction . This generally worked well and the Commonwealth Bank was truly “the people’s bank”.
Following privatisation, the Commonwealth Bank began buying up many smaller institutions, including expanding into Asia, including China and Indonesia.
With privatisation, the need to put shareholders’ profit over customer service started a trend to cut many services, especially in regional centres.
Other private banks watched closely the Commonwealth Bank’s path, and they too started to cut customer services.
As the major banks started closing regional banks, a new breed of community-based banks took their place, banks such as Bendigo Bank, Queensland Country Bank, Bank of Queensland, Summertime Bank, and a long list of others. Initially, many of those banks started life as local credit unions run by local committees.
A community bank is a financial institution that primarily serves its immediate area. These banks are found in many different places but not often in large cities. In smaller regional towns, some of those banks coexisted with other businesses such as news agencies, post offices, and general stores, however, still provided basic services to local customers.
As they grew, they too became more in tune with making more profits for their shareholders, and they too started to close regional offices.
The Bendigo Bank has advised that it will close twenty-eight agencies across New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, and Western Australia, beginning in October 2025.
The decline of regional bank branches across Australia has become a significant concern for rural and regional communities. Over the past few decades, the major banks have progressively closed branches in smaller towns, citing declining customer use, the rise of online banking, and cost pressures. While these closures may improve the efficiency and profitability of the banks, they have left behind a trail of social and economic problems for local communities that depend heavily on face-to-face financial services.
One of the most immediate consequences is the loss of accessibility. Many regional Australians, particularly older residents, still rely on in-person banking. While urban customers can adjust more easily to internet banking or mobile apps, many rural areas have patchy internet coverage or limited digital literacy.
See next Page
Australia’s Banks are failing the average Aussie!!
It started with the sale of the Commonwealth Bank
The closure of a local branch can mean a long drive— sometimes hundreds of kilometres—to the nearest town with banking facilities. This makes everyday financial tasks, from withdrawing cash to arranging a loan, inconvenient or even impossible for some residents.
Another major issue is the impact on small businesses. Local businesses in regional towns often operate in cashheavy environments, such as hospitality, retail, and farming services. Without a local branch, the safe and timely depositing of takings becomes more difficult. Cash handling also grows riskier when businesses are forced to travel long distances to bank their earnings. In turn, this undermines confidence in local commerce and can weaken already fragile regional economies. The social consequences are also profound. A bank branch in a small town is not only a financial service; it is often a trusted part of the community’s fabric. Staff members develop longstanding relationships with customers, providing advice and personal assistance that is not easily replaced by call centres or online forms. When branches close, these
personal connections are lost, leaving many people— particularly the elderly and vulnerable—feeling abandoned by institutions they have been loyal to for decades.
Moreover, the closure of branches feeds into a cycle of regional decline. Each lost service reduces the attractiveness of a town for families and businesses. Just as the closure of a school, hospital, or post office can undermine a community’s viability, the disappearance of banking services signals to outsiders that a town is in decline. This perception can discourage investment and make it harder to retain residents, accelerating depopulation trends in some rural areas.
Finally, there is a question of fairness. Banks operate under government regulation, benefit from a strong national financial system, and rely on trust from the public. Many regional Australians feel betrayed when profitable banks—often posting multibillion-dollar annual earnings— cut costs at the expense of smaller communities. Critics argue that banks have a social responsibility to maintain a physical presence in the
regions, even if individual branches are not highly profitable.
In short, the failure of banks to maintain regional branches has created a divide between metropolitan and rural Australians. While digital services are convenient for many, they cannot fully replace the need for local access to financial services. The closures have strained small businesses, inconvenienced residents, weakened communities, and eroded trust in the banking sector.
Major banks have become extremely profitable at the expense of the average Aussie. Those same banks should recognise that access to financial services is an essential service. To this end, they should commit to guaranteeing reasonable access to cash and financial services for all Australians.
Addressing this issue may require stronger government intervention, alternative models of regional banking, or a renewed recognition by the banks of their obligations to serve all Australians, not just those in the cities.
Don’t take Maleny’s two local banks for granted as they may not always be here to support Maleny Customers.
News from Witta Recreational Club
Proudly bought to you by David Lowden Excavations
Hire of Club Facilities
The vision of the club is to provide country club services to be enjoyed by the local community and visitors to the area.
The excellent facilities of the Witta Recreation Club are available for hire for events such as weddings, sports days, family gatherings.
The club has a Certified Kitchen/Catering facilities including a stove, pots & pans, dishwasher, crockery and utensils. The Bushman’s Bar is practically fitted out with a large capacity for the cold storage of a range of beverages. The Bushman’s Bar is located at the core of the Witta Recreation Club. Service from the bar can be provided to customers on the covered hard standing overlooking the playing pitches, or directly into the Clubroom.
Inquiries can be made via the internet at: https://wittarec.club/facilities/make-a-booking
You can find out more about the Witta Recreation Club at their web site at: https://wittarec.club/
Sunshine Coast Council Minor Grants Program
Can your not-for-profit group make our community more active, vibrant, inclusive, resilient and creative?
Minor grants support not-for-profit organisations to deliver one-off projects, events and activities with broad community benefit.
Always check the guidelines for eligibility and priorities before applying.
Note: if applying for community event funding, please apply under the category best aligned with your event's purpose. If applying for a Christmas, New Year (December 31-January 1), Australia Day, ANZAC Day or Remembrance Day event, please see council's new Festive and Commemorative Events grants at:
MANAGEMENT MEETINGS ARE NORMALLY THE 3RD MONDAY AND GENERAL MEETING 4TH MONDAY EACH MONTH.
October 2025
BUSY NEEDLES 9th (Bicentenary Room) and 23rh
INDOOR BOWLS 1st, 8th 15th, 22nd and 29th
DROP IN 3rd, NO DROP IN 10th, then as usual 17th, 24th and 31st
COMMITTEE MEETING … 20th Usual time and place
GENERAL MEETING 27nd 930am start.
Sausage sizzle … 5th Movies … 19th t
November 2025
BUSY NEEDLES 3rd, 17th and 31st
INDOOR BOWLS 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th
DROP IN NO DROP IN 4th, then 11th, 18th and 25th COMMITTEE MEETING 21st Usual time and place (Thanks Lynda)
GENERAL MEETING … 28th All positions vacant Treasurers in particular 930am start.
Sausage sizzle … 6th. Movies … 20th 230pm Sausage sizzle … 3 rd Movies … 24th. 2.30p.m. start
“Most happenings at seniors start at 9am unless otherwise specified. For more information phone Margaret on . 0409 266 507.
Maleny Bowls Club
Don’t forget the Tuesday Jackpot Pair Bowls
EVERY Tuesday 8.30a.m. for 9a.m. start.
Pairs. - 2 x 10 ends
You can keep “”Up to Date” with Maleny Club Newsletter at https://malenybowlsclub.com.au/newsletter.html
Maleny Calendar of Events 2025.
✦ Maleny Music Festival - Sat 18th and Sun 19th October, 2025 Maleny Show-ground
✦ Street Feast Maleny - At Maleny Showgrounds Sunday 19th October, 2025 commencing at 5a.m.
✦ Maleny Lions Club Meet and Greet afternoon at Tranquil Park, Maleny. Sunday 19th October, 2025 comm 2p.m.
✦ Woodford Folk Festival at Woodfonia.Sat Dec 27th - Thur Jan 1st 2026.
To add your local organisation events to this list simply email details to: thegrapevine@westnet.com.au
Witta Recreational Club
Bar Open Wednesday afternoons 4.30pm to 6.30pm. All Welcome
Touch Season has started with the Canteen and Bar operating every FRIDAY Night from 6pm
Available for Hire for Private functions – Birthday Celebrations – Weddings etc.
We are always looking for new members and volunteers.
Contact us by email at. - presidentwittarec@gmail.com
Maleny SES looking for volunteers
Maleny State Emergency Service Group is looking for some volunteers to help get our community through the next disaster season.
You can put your desire to get involved to good use and serve our community. An easy way to do that by becoming a State Emergency Service (SES) volunteer.
Active SES members perform a diverse range of functions to respond to local, state and national disasters and emergencies. By joining the SES you may respond to many different types of activations as a result of disasters and emergencies.
An SES volunteer has an opportunity to participate in and develop a variety of emergency and rescue skills, including chainsaw operations, flood boat operations, road crash rescue and land search.
Not only will you be helping your community, you will make some great mates along the way.
Volunteers are given training to ensure that they have enough skills to be able to handle whatever task you need to do..
Maleny SES Volunteer group
Be
Prepared for severe weather events
What to do if you need assistance
For life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000).For storm and flood related property damage.
Call the State Emergency Service: 132 500. To keep up to date with Emergency Warnings
Tune into warnings and updates from your local ABC radio and TV stations
Important Phone numbers for assistance during or after a major emergency service 132 500
When disaster strikes you need to follow the advice of authorities on staying put or evacuating and follow your emergency plan.
To find out where to find assistance during or after a major emergency service.
The Maleny Visitor Information Centre is a not for profit, long-standing, independent community service, run by volunteers. The Centre is a ticket selling agency for Maleny Film Society movie screenings along with a range of quality souvenirs and postcards, with a distinctively Maleny flavour along with information about places and events around the area.
The Centre is situated at 2/23 Maple Street, Maleny. It is open 7 days a week between 9.30am-4.00pm. Closed only on Good Friday and Christmas Day. If you have lost something on your visit to Maleny check with the centre as often items are handed in there. Phone: 07 5499 9033
To find out more about the Maleny Visitors Information Centre and talk to the volunteers or visit the web site: https://malenyinfocentre.edublogs.org/ In this year
There is a Recreational Group in Maleny and Surrounds that will cater for your desires!
WEEKLY COMMUNITY EVENTS!
Maleny Scottish Country Dancing every Monday 7 to 9 pm RSL Hall. Call 0432 251 606.
Social Tennis every Monday 8.00 am Witta Tennis Club. All Welcome.
Mixed Social Tennis every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6.30am to 8.30am Maleny Showgrounds
Ladies Social Tennis every Thursday at 7.30am Maleny Showgrounds.
Maleny Bowls Club. – TUESDAY AM BOWLS, 8.30am for 9.00am . 2 games + morning tea $12 per player. Rink Winner Prizes. Visitors and players welcome. Call Joe 0401 987 900 to book your place
FRIDAY PM play SCROUNGERS ‘BOWLS WITH A MATE ’ 1pm for 1.30pm (winter), 2 pm (from November). Bowls can be provided. Call Wendy 0438 399 604.
Combined Probus Club of Maleny Inc. Meets every 4th Wednesday from February to November at 10.00 am at the Uniting Church, Landsborough Rd, Maleny. Contact malenyprobus@gmail.com or membership enquiries 0408070823
Muzika Maleny local musicians First Thursday of Each Month from 6.30 pm Maleny RSL.
Pattemore House Open House Morning every Friday 10.00 am - 12 noon 15, Porters Lane.
Diggers Dining every Friday evening 4.30 bar opens Maleny RSL.
Tennis Under Lights every Friday Witta Tennis Club. BYO drinks and nibbles Contact. Pauline 0428 253 070.
Hinterland Country Music Day. Second Saturday each month in the big shed at the Maleny Museum Precinct.
Maleny Trail Parkrun every Saturday 7.00 am Maleny District Sport & Rec Club House Maleny Precinct.
Witta Tennis Club Social Tennis every Saturday 1.00 pm. All Welcome.
Witta Wheels every 3rd Sunday each month 8.00 am - 11.00 am Witta Recreation Club
Maleny Markets every Sunday 8am to 2pm Maleny RSL.
Social Table Tennis every Sunday 1 - 5 pm Maleny High School Activity Centre. All welcome!
Combined Probus Club of Maleny Inc. Meets every 4th Wednesday from February to November at 10.00 am at the Uniting Church, Landsborough Rd, Maleny. Contact malenyprobus@gmail.com or membership enquiries 0408070823
Please email your weekly regular event to malenysportspark@gmail.com for inclusion every week
Today’s Thought
“9. "One day you will look back and see that all along you were blooming."
A Senior’s thoughty!
“"Wrinkles will only go where the smiles have been.”
“Maple Street, Maleny” Early 1900’s
Who remembers Maple Street, Maleny before even “Moffies Garage or even the later to come, some 50 years later - The Maleny Police Station“was there?
Not too many cars parked In the street then! Horse and carts still transversed the roadway. Though some buildings look familiar and are still there today. How 100 years have changed the landscape and changed the culture of Maleny - some believe not for the better!
Shopping local keeps your money in your community! To follow “The Local Shopper” Newsletter go to: https://issuu.com/Maleny-Grapevine-Community-News The Local Shopper will be digitally published on the First and Third Friday of each month via the ISSUU web site. To subscribe email: thegrapevine@westnet.com.au
