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Contact for advertising
Email thegrapevine@westnet.com.au or phone Les at Maleny Paint Supplies on 54942002.
Oh! the days when we thought that we had everything when we upgraded to a ringer washing machine from the old copper that was fire powered for the heat.
Have a quiet little coffee. by the banks
of Obi Creek
Are you wanting a great coffee and a restful place to sit and ponder whilst you enjoy it?
Have you ever wondered just where you’ll find that good stuff? Fresh brews, good chats, and even better vibes and a restful place to sit and ponder?
If I tell you, then don’t tell everyone else so that it remains serene and friendly - it is at Concept Coffee behind Concept Computers.
You can sit and hope to view the platypus if you are there at the right time of day whilst listening to the sound of the bubbling creek as it passes by. The boardwalk seating is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the moment.
On the banks of Obi Obi Creek
Outdoor Boardwalk Seating � And Dog Friendly Shop 6/2 Maple Street, Maleny!
Go along and tell them that Steve the security dog at Maleny Paint Supplies told you about this little piece of Maleny tranquility!
Crisafulli Government backs Rural Firies in Glass House
The Queensland Government recognises the vital role Rural Fire Service Queensland volunteers play during all types of disasters. Historic 2024/25 disaster season highlighted the important role of Rural Fire Services in supporting local communities in times of need. Fire Services Act 1990 amended to clarify how Rural Fire Services can support Queenslanders in times of disaster.
The Crisafulli Government has backed Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) volunteers to keep Queenslanders safe all year round, with the Fire Services Act 1990 being amended to solidify the crucial role Rural Fire Services play during times of need.
By amending the Act, it provides greater certainty for brigades. The amendment has clarified that they can undertake activities on their own initiative and recognised that, during fire and other events like floods, brigades can encounter unexpected and urgent incidents that require an immediate response.
Member for Glass House, Andrew Powell, said Rural Fire Services were at the heart of their local community. “ “The amendments will mean that whether it’s during bushfires, floods or cyclones, our Rural Fire Services can continue to protect Queenslanders with certainty.”
Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers, Ann Leahy, said the Crisafulli Government supported Rural Fire Services at every opportunity.
https://issuu.com/Maleny-Grapevine-Community-News
Around Glass house Electorate with Mr Andrew Powell M.P.
Funded Homes!
Queensland’s social housing includes public housing, managed by the state government, and community housing, delivered by non-profit organisations or local governments.
We're making sure taxpayerfunded homes are going to those who need them most.
That’s why we restarted rent and eligibility reviews in July.
45% of Queensland’s social housing tenants had not had their rent or ongoing eligibility assessed in more than five years under Labor, and we've already found cases of property owners and high-income earners living in social housing.
Our action is all about empowering our housing officers to properly manage public housing and deliver
fairer outcomes for all Queenslanders.
Domestic + Family Violence Reform
Landmark Domestic and Family Violence reform passed through Parliament on 28th August 2025. The reform includes three main changes to protect more victims sooner, including:
on-the-spot protection orders
new GPS trackers for high-risk offenders the use of videorecorded evidence in court
This is just the start as we begin to unravel the mess left by a decade of decline under the former Labor Governmentwhich saw domestic and family violence-related incidents rise
by 218%, meaning police responded to an incident every three minutes on average.
No matter where you live in Queensland, you deserve to be safe in your community, and safe in your home.
Maleny Men’s Shed Honour Board
In September, I visited the Maleny Men’s Shed group to unveil their new honour board.
Around Division 5 with Cr Winston Johnston
To contact Cr Winston Johnston winston.johnston@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au
Dangerous dog inspections being undertaken at present!
The Sunshine Coast Council dangerous dog program outlines ‘serious obligations’ for owners and the council will launch its annual inspection program to ensure dangerous and menacing dogs are properly contained.
This follows Council’s September 18 Ordinary Meeting, where Councillors supported the continued focus on education and enforcing regulated dog rules. The program was approved and will run between November 14, 2025, and November 13, 2026.
The endorsement allows Council teams to conduct inspections of properties where regulated dogs are housed to remind owners of their responsibilities regarding containment and public conduct. Under the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008, regulated dogs include those declared dangerous or menacing. Regulated dogs must be kept in accordance with strict conditions to ensure public safety.
POLITICAL COMMENT MADE BY LNP backbencher Stephen Bennett “I might have had “a glass of wine or something” following a deleted comment on Facebook slamming Labor.”
Grants for Local Community Groups
Right across Fisher, not-for-profit organisations play a huge role in making our community more active, vibrant, inclusive and resilient.
The Sunshine Coast Council’s Minor Grants program is now open, offering up to $3,000 to support one-off projects, events and activities that deliver broad community benefit.
Applications close on the 27th October 2025, so if your group has a great idea, now is the time to apply.
Just some local Fisher Community News
More info and applications: http://sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/.../ grants.../minor-grants
“Pollie Pedal 2025 for Charity”
On Saturday, 27th September, I tagged in for my first day on the bike as part of this year’s Pollie Pedal, joining colleagues like Angus Taylor and Tony Abbott to do my bit for our veterans. Day 7 takes us from Tanunda on the Tour of Barossa, riding through Angaston, Penfolds Barossa Valley, and Chateau Tanunda before looping back.
I’ll be back in the saddle tomorrow for the final day, finishing at Brooklyn Park Primary School.
Pollie Pedal has raised over $7.4 million since 1998. This year, we’re supporting Wandering Warriors, who provide education, career transition, and wellbeing programs for Special Forces veterans and their families.
Since 1998, over 25 thousand kilometres have been ridden, and more than 7.4 million dollars have been raised; the impact is real and lasting. This year, the route is 831 kilometres long. Every kilometre counts, and so does every dollar. Please donate now via one of the links below: #PolliePedal2025 #RideForVeterans #WanderingWarriors
https://issuu.com/Maleny-Grapevine-Community-News
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/
https://issuu.com/Maleny-Grapevine-Community-News
Maleny Farm Festival 2025
The Maleny Agricultural Show Society is launching a bold new initiative: the Maleny Farm Fest – a one-day celebration of innovation, resilience, and opportunity in farming on Saturday, 22 November 2025, 9:00 AM- 4:00 PM at the Maleny Show Grounds, and entry is FREE. This is an addition to the Maleny Agricultural Show, which comes to town earlier in the year.
So, why not “Make a Day of it for the whole family”? The theme of the day is “Educate. Equip. Empower” and this would be a great place to start for the younger generation who has not had a lot to do with country living.
There will be delicious food and refreshments available all day long.
Some of the events and displays for you to see include:
Bush BBQ Challenge –Watch Service club teams battle it out; you vote for the most tantalising Bush BBQ Meal.
Show Ring Ready – Learn from the experts how animals are prepared for the show ring.
Talks & Panels – Animal & plant pest management, farm safety, rural health & more. These subjects will be happening on multiple stages, going all day.
Live Demonstrations/Talks – Fencing, drones, farm machinery, equipment, chainsaw safety, small machine maintenance & more.
Trailblazers Youth Zone – Youth-led exhibits, Speakers focusing on Agricultural Careers, Kahoot’s Ag Quiz, hands-on activities, & a drone simulator to try.
Flavours of the Farm – Local produce exhibited with talks & demos about those products.
Pallet Build-Off – Watch creative builds from pallets by teams of creative folk.
Passport Quest – A unique photo scavenger hunt: 'Where is Daisy?’ Simply snap photos of your finds and win!
This event will deliver a full day designed to educate, equip, and connect. Let’s work together to support and grow the small blocks to large-scale farming movement in Maleny.
Follow us for updates: Maleny Show Society, https://www.malenyshowsociety.org.au/events/mal
C.W.A. Maleny Branch
The Maleny Branch of the Country Women’s Association is still going strong in 2025. This association has had a long association with the local area. Did you know that the first annual meeting of the Maleny branch of the Queensland Country Women’s Association was held in the Maleny School of Arts hall on Tuesday afternoon, February 11th, 1930.
Mr. R. J. Lindsay presided in the absence of the chairman of the Landsborough Shire Council, Mr. John Grigor. The retiring president, Mrs. E. Evans, presented the annual report which reported that:
'On the whole,' the report proceeded,'the year had been satisfactory. Our monthly meetings have been held without a break; it was also necessary to call three special meetings. The average attendance for the year was 20. The branch was formed with 18 members, and up to date, the membership is 50.
The branch responded well to the various calls for assistance, the first being a case of distress for which a dance was organised, and proved most successful.
The financial results of the year must be gratifying to all when we know that local bodies have been assisted to the amount of £185/2/1, the case of distress receiving £36/18/0, Maleny Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital £62/17/7, Maleny Show Society £82/9/6, Maleny School Committee for swimming pool £2/2/0, and the Maleny Ambulance £1/1/0.
Mrs. E. Farmer, the Divisional President, visited the branch in July. A sewing guild was formed in September, the object being for two members to meet at the local hospital every alternate week for sewing. Over nearly a century, the Maleny Branch of the Country Women’s Association has been doing what that organisation does best, caring for the people of their community and ensuring the welfare of people from the local community. What a great job - well done.
On October 3rd, 1952, the first British nuclear weapon test was held off the coast of Western Australia on the Montebello Islands.
Further testing took place from 1952 to 1963, mostly at Maralinga and Emu Field in South Australia.
During the trials, Britain conducted 12 major trials of nuclear devices across the three sites. Some resulted in mushroom clouds reaching heights of 47,000 feet (14,325 metres), and radioactive fallout blown by wind was detected as far away as Townsville. It has been found that major and widespread plutonium contamination remained.
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
Is the banning of pill testing at festivals the real answer?
Pill testing at music festivals in Queensland has become a critical public health issue. Trials have been conducted by government to judge the safety and efficiency of such a prograM. The present government’s intention is to prohibit such services. This is in spite of a body of evidence from assorted health experts, community groups, and festival organisers to continue to highlight the importance of pill testing as a harm-reduction strategy.
The reality is that young people will continue to experiment with drugs at festivals, and simply banning pill testing does not stop this behaviour—it only makes it more dangerous. Pill testing allows festival-goers to have their substances analysed by trained professionals in a controlled environment. The service does not endorse drug use; rather, it provides individuals with accurate information about what they are about to consume. Illicit drugs are often cut with toxic or unpredictable substances, including chemicals that can cause seizures, organ failure, or death.
When individuals are informed that their pill contains harmful additives, research shows many choose to discard it instead of taking the risk. This simple intervention can save lives.
Beyond the immediate safety benefits, pill testing opens the door to meaningful conversations between health professionals and young people. Instead of facing judgment or punishment, festival-goers are more likely to listen to advice about safe behaviours, overdose symptoms, and emergency responses. These conversations can influence long-term attitudes and help foster a culture of care and responsibility rather than fear and secrecy.
International evidence strongly supports pill testing. Countries such as Switzerland, the Netherlands, and the UK have successfully implemented these services, reducing harm and improving data collection about emerging drug trends.
Australia’s own pilot programs in the ACT have shown promising results, with contaminated pills identified and discarded before they could cause harm. Making pill testing illegal will not prevent drug use—it will only remove a valuable safety net. The government’s role should be to protect public health, and in this context, that means embracing strategies that reduce harm rather than clinging to prohibition alone. Pill testing is not a solution to drug use, but it is an important tool for keeping Queensland festivalgoers safer and ensuring that a night of music and celebration does not end in tragedy.
Truthful Jones says And he swears that it 100% true - No Bulls##t”
Truthful was having a coffee at the Concept Coffee Shop on Obi Boardwalk a few days ago when he overheard this conversation between three females also having a coffee at Concepts Coffee. I know one of the women is engaged, one is a mistress, and the other has been married for 20+ years.
They were chatting about their relationships and they decided to amaze their men by greeting them at the door wearing a black bra, stiletto heels and a mask over our eyes. They agreed to meet in a few days to exchange notes.
Eager to hear how their experiment went so Truthful made sure that week he was sitting at the next table when again they met.
Here's how it all went.
The engaged woman said:
The other night when my boyfriend came over he found me with a black leather bodice, tall stilettos and a mask. He saw me and said, 'You are the woman of my dreams ... I love you.’ Then we made passionate love all night long.
The mistress said:
Me too! The other night I met my lover at his office and I was wearing a raincoat, under it only the black bra, heels and mask over my eyes. When I opened the raincoat he didn't say a word, but he started to tremble and we had wild sex all night.
Then the married woman shared her story: When my husband came home I was wearing the black bra, black stockings, stilettos and a mask over my eyes. When he came in the door and saw me, he said, "What's for dinner, Zorro?”
Maleny Paint Supplies
made
Paint
Stevie the Security Dog at Maleny Paint Shop also attends to our customers
Stevie the tan dachshund never set out to work in a paint shop, but life has a funny way of throwing opportunities at shortlegged dogs. His owner, Brett, owned “Maleny Paint Supplies,” and one morning Stevie trotted in wearing a tiny red cap he’d found under the counter. From that day on, he considered himself officially employed as a customer service dog.
He raucously welcomes each customer with a hearty barking welcome. This is not only as a form of welcome, but as a warning that he was also the security dog.
Stevie’s specialty was stock management. With his low centre of gravity, he became the perfect trolley pusher, shuffling along the aisles with stacks of “All Shield” paint tins wobbling dangerously above his head. Customers often stopped mid-shop, whispering, “Is that dog… working here?” Stevie would just snort proudly and keep pushing.
Of course, his methods weren’t always textbook. He had a habit of reorganising shelves based on his own canine logic. Blue tins always went at nose height, red tins stayed at tail height, and anything resembling “bone white” mysteriously disappeared into his private stash behind the counter.
The highlight of his day was “colour consultation.” A customer would ask, “Do you think this shade is too bright for the living room?” Stevie would cock his head, give a thoughtful tail wag, and occasionally bark twice for approval. The townsfolk soon trusted his opinion more than the actual staff.
There were a few mishaps, naturally. Once he slipped on a paint drop, rolled into a pyramid of yellow tins, and came out looking like a half-sized yellow submarine. Instead of being upset, Stevie strutted around the shop floor, earning himself the nickname “The Rolling Sunshine.”
By closing time, Stevie would curl up on the counter, tail dusted with sawdust and paws speckled with colour samples. He wasn’t just a paint shop worker—he was the mascot, consultant, and most loyal employee that Maleny Paint Supplies had ever had.
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 on those Rotted Timber Window Sills
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.
Coatings &. Construction Insulseal
Insulateal is an outstanding heat-reflecting membrane with a proven record on a global market. It has a remarkable ability to protect the substrate from heat, water, and any other atmospheric gases. It lowers the temperature of the substrate on which it is applied and saves energy costs.
It is an environmentally friendly product with the ability to conserve energy and protect the tile environment. It is a onecomponent system with excellent adhesion, micro-porous, impervious to salt spray and airborne pollution, mould and fungus resistant.
It is formulated, made, and owned by an Australian company. This product is now available through Maleny Paint.
Make Australia Make Again!
If you want to live in a country that builds things you have to buy things that your country builds!
The problem normally starts with the paint breakdown through one simple factor…..coefficient differentials of expansion and contraction. In simple language different speeds of movement within the timber. An assessment of the decay has to be made in the first instance. If the decay has gone too far, the only sensible remedy is to remove and replace. However if there is still some structural integrity, saturating the soft dozy timber with NORGLASS NORSEAL can provide a permanent solution. To do this remove (by sanding) any residual paint, then drill holes randomly along the sill, at about a 30 degree angle. Then mix up a volume (250ml mix) of Norseal and using a small funnel pour the mixture into the holes. As the Norseal drains away, come back and refill them. Repeat a few times and then coat the entire sill. Leave to cure for about 48 hours.
A plastic cover should be placed over the sill to prevent dew (or rain) gaining access. Next, fill the holes with NORGLASS NORFILL, a white epoxy filler. As well as filling the holes, use the Norfill to radius out the internal 90 degree angles using a paddle pop stick or back of a teaspoon. What this does is to contain the lateral differentials of both timber interfaces, thus preventing further internal paint cracking. This is essential to the longevity of the paint structure…and the ongoing problem is solved. Now paint the surface with NORGLASS PRICOAT and finish with NORGLASS WEATHERFAST PREMIUM ENAMEL.
What makes a will?
With Tove Easton of Easton Lawyers, Maleny
As the dear readers would already know a Will is a document that sets out the wishes of a person regarding how that person’s estate should be distributed after death. I shall call the willmaker “the Testator” for the rest of this Article.
For a Will to be valid it Must meet certain formal requirements as follows:
1. WRITING: The Will must be in writing. This means that it can be handwritten or typed. The same writing method – either handwriting or typed – must be used throughout the Will to avoid confusion. It can be made in any language but it is obviously best if it is written in English to avoid problems of translation or interpretation.
2. SIGNED: It should be signed by the Testator making the Will. A signature can also be a mark in case the person signing the Will is blind or illiterate. In circumstances where the Testator is unable to mark or sign the Will then someone else can sign on the Testator’s behalf providing firstly that the Testator is present when the Will is signed and secondly that this is disclosed in the Will.
3. DATED: the Will must be dated the day it was signed. Although a Will is effective from the date of the Testator’s death and not from the date of signing, the date of signing must appear on the Will. If the Will has no date then the witnesses may be required to swear an affidavit about the date the Will was signed.
4. WITNESSES: The Testator’s signature must be witnessed by two witnesses who must both be present when the Testator signs. It is also important that a beneficiary not witness the Testator’s signature as in a worst case scenario it could mean that any gift to that beneficiary is invalid.
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
Easton Lawyers has existed for nearly 17 years, however the original founding firm here in Maleny commenced in excess of 40 years ago.
Should you have any questions, please contact our office on
07 5494 3511 Monday to Friday between 08:30 and 17:00 AEST.
Web Address: http://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. We support many local community Groups
Translink – 131 230 It is always interesting to see what is happening in other parts of the world. It is easy to explore through Online Newspapers https://onlinenewspapers.com/index.shtml
Hinterland Music Group’s sing-along
If anyone wants a good afternoon out, then why not go along to the Hinterland Music Group’s get-together?
It is held out at the group’s shed in the Maleny Historical precinct on the 2nd Saturday of the month. The next one is on 11th October, starting at 11 am.
The cost is $7 entry and $3 for a sausage on a bun sizzle. It is open-mic, so anyone can have a go at singing, playing a musical instrument, or whatever takes your fancy.
To find out more and to see some photos of previous concerts, visit: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php? id=100070207786445
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
Mass migration has brought significant change to Australia, but it has also created a range of challenges that are increasingly visible in society and culture. One of the most pressing concerns is social cohesion. For some Australians, this raises fears that the sense of a unified national identity is being eroded.
While multiculturalism has enriched the nation, it has also produced friction when practices, beliefs, or values clash with long-established norms.
Mass migration has always been a defining feature of Australia’s history, but in recent decades the scale, diversity, and speed of demographic change have reshaped the nation more profoundly than ever before. From the arrival of the First Fleet to waves of British, Irish, and later European settlers, migration has long influenced Australia’s population and culture. However, the last halfcentury has seen a marked shift, as immigration programs have diversified and Australia has become one of the most multicultural societies in the world.
This transformation is changing the way Australians see themselves, their communities, and their national identity.
According to the Australian Government Centre for population in 2019, Australia had the highest share of migrants* in the OECD after Luxembourg, at 30 per cent of the population. This was more than twice the OECD average which was at 14 per cent.
Mass migration in Australia have not always been positive as it has caused increased strain on housing, leading to higher rents and a worsened housing affordability crisis; overstretched infrastructure like
public transport and hospitals; potential wage stagnation and downward pressure on living standards; and possible worker exploitation in specific sectors due to poor temporary visa conditions.
One of the most fundamental liberal freedoms are the free movement of people and goods across borders. It was under Prime Minister John Howard that, for the first time since federation, the overseas-born proportion of the population exceeded 24 per cent, and it was also under Howard that the non-European component of the overseas born went above 50 per cent for the first time.
One of the most immediate effects of mass migration is demographic change. Today, nearly 30 percent of Australia’s population is born overseas, and almost half of all Australians have at least one parent who migrated. The face of Australia is increasingly shaped by Asian, Middle Eastern, African, and Pacific Islander communities, adding to earlier European influences. This growing diversity is especially visible in cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, where suburbs are often home to vibrant cultural enclaves. Migration is not evenly spread, however; rural and regional
areas still tend to reflect older AngloCeltic and European traditions, creating a cultural contrast within the nation.
Cultural change has followed demographic change. Food, language, religion, and community practices all reflect migration patterns. Australian cuisine has shifted from a largely AngloEuropean base to a global fusion, with Asian, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean food becoming everyday staples.
Major cities now host festivals such as Lunar New Year, Diwali, and Eid alongside traditional events like Australia Day and Anzac Day. Religious diversity has also expanded, with Christianity still the largest faith, but Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Buddhism all growing significantly. This pluralism is fostering a broader awareness of the world, but it has also sparked debates about national identity, cultural cohesion, and the meaning of “Australian values.”
Economically, migration has been both a necessity and a driver of growth. Migrants have filled critical shortages in healthcare, construction, agriculture, and technology.
See next Page
Continued from previous Page
Skilled migration programs have brought in highly educated professionals, while humanitarian and family reunion programs have contributed to Australia’s social responsibilities.
On the other hand there have been challenges for migrants in having their overseas qualifications recognised and finding local work experience, and a reliance on population growth rather than productivity for economic growth.
Some experts believe that overcrowding in our capital cities will continue to get worse, wages will continue to stagnate, infrastructure will continue to be overstretched, housing will continue to be unaffordable and that's just the tip of the iceberg..
The debate over whether migration rates are sustainable continues to influence Australian politics and public opinion.
Culturally, mass migration has broadened the Australian identity beyond its colonial heritage. Whereas “Australian culture” was once tied strongly to British traditions and the mythologies of the bush, today it is increasingly urban, multicultural, and cosmopolitan.
This has created opportunities for greater cultural exchange, but it has also caused friction in some quarters. Debates over immigration levels, cultural integration, and national unity highlight ongoing tensions between a vision of Australia as a multicultural mosaic and concerns about preserving a more traditional national character.
In 2025 the vast bulk of new arrivals into Australia are from developing nations, where English isn't a first language nor Christianity a majority religion
Ultimately, mass migration is not only changing the face of Australia but also reshaping its culture, economy, and
identity. It is producing a society that is more diverse, globally connected, and dynamic. The challenge for the future lies in balancing this diversity with social cohesion, ensuring that Australia’s multicultural reality strengthens rather than fragments its sense of nationhood.
Australia is the world’s most welcoming and tolerant nation, and migration will aways be critical, but it must be planned for and undertaken in a manner that is consistent with our nation’s values. The Australian Bureau of Statistics shows that the equivalent of 1223 people every single day and almost 500,000 per year migrate permanently into Australia.
The continued reliance on population rather than productivity growth to drive economic growth may have grown the overall economic pie, but it has left the typical Australia with an ever-smaller slice.”
Australia’s living standards are going backwards faster than any comparable nation due in large part to neverending population growth, underpinned by unplanned mass-migration. As of early 2025, estimates suggest around 70,000 people live in Australia without legal immigration status, primarily through visa overstays.
The Institute of Public Affairs research in 2023 shows that mass migration has made the typical Australian $7,848 worse off and has totalled $80,038 since 2000.
The Institute says that Australia needs a proper debate about the size of our migration intake, which has grown at an unprecedented rate without planning and without community consent. This debate should consider the subject of assimilation into Australian society as well as the rate of sustainable migration into Australia.
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.
Hardware - Farm Supplies - Pet Products - Garden - Fencing - Camping Andrea & Mark Porter
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!
The signs of spring are beginning to happen around us as the days lengthen and the earth begins to warm…
Now is an ideal time to check out our new “Garden Section”
Now is an ideal time to check out our new “Garden Section”
Searles Premium Potting Mix is a high quality potting mix containing a refined blend of selected high quality ingredients. This mix has excellent water retention properties while also allowing ideal drainage, providing the optimal growing conditions for your loved plants.
✦ - Boosted nutrition for sustained healthy growth and flowering - contains 8 month fertiliser.
✦ - Added rapid response fertiliser which delivers essential nutrients immediately after planting.
✦ Packaging for all sizes may be recycled via REDcycle.
Click on the link below for more information about RedCycle: https://www.searlesgardening.com.au/ products/category/HNLOOXVS-key-products/ MIPB--searles-premium-potting-mix-6lt
- Available sizes: 6 litres, 10 litres , 30 litres, 50 litres and 65 litres
https://issuu.com/Maleny-Grapevine-Community-News
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/
Maleny Blackall Range Lions Meet & Greet Afternoon
The Maleny Blackall Range Lions Club is holding their 20th annual new residents “meet and greet” afternoon on Sunday, 19th October 2025, between 2:00 PM and 4:30 PM at Tranquil Park restaurant, 483 Mountain View Road, Maleny.
This is a fun afternoon with live music, auctions, a lucky door prize, and local produce sampling. Most importantly, you will meet fellow new residents of Maleny and surrounds as well as connecting with local businesses, clubs, and not-for-profit organisations.
There are no restrictions to this event and it is not restricted to only people new Maleny Blackall Range area. Anyone who would like to get more involved with community groups or meet new friends and neighbours is also welcome to attend.
You will be greeted on entry with a glass of champagne - delicious finger food will be served throughout the afternoon.
Children under 12 are free.
For further information or to book, visit the web page: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1425766.
https://issuu.com/Maleny-Grapevine-Community-News
Local Community News
Latest Community Groups news and updates
Maleny Senior Citizens Notes
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 Garden Club Spring Fair.Saturday October 4th - Maleny Showgrounds.
✦ Maleny Street Feast. - Sunday October 19th from 5p.m. at Maleny ShowGrounds.
✦ Maleny Music Festival - Friday 7th to Sunday 9th November 2025 at Maleny Show-grounds.
✦ 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
Maleny Garden Club
Spring Fair 2025
The Maleny Garden Club will be holding a One Day Event open to the public on Saturday 4th October, 2025 between 8.30am and 3pm.
There will be open gardens as well as a garden market at Maleny Showgrounds when Maleny Garden Club again celebrates the Maleny Spring Fair event.
Entry to the Garden Market at the Maleny Showgrounds Pavilion is $2.00 per adult. Children to 16 years are free.
For further information visit their web site at:. https://malenygardenclub.org/spring-fair/
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
"The best tunes are played on the oldest fiddles!”
A Senior’s thoughty!
“"The harvest of old age is the recollection and abundance of blessing previously secured".”
Maleny Mens Shed is a place for men in the Maleny area to get together, advance their health and wellbeing, enjoy hands-on activities such as woodworking, blacksmithing, machining , making new friends, and talking about men's business. The shed is open on Tuesdays and Fridays between 8am and noon. Please join us!
