Maleny Grapevine Community News and Maleny District Sports Club Results for the period to 01.05.2026
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 3638 Page Impressions with a read time of 3min 08 secs
Contact for advertising
Email thegrapevine@westnet.com.au or phone Les at Maleny Paint Supplies on 54942002.
Ready to visit friends - 1920’s
Ready to visit friends in the 1920’s for a “young lady” was not as easy and carefree as today.
Hat - handbag and gloves were prerequisites before leaving home!
Maleny Golf new clubhouse takes shape!
The Maleny Golf Club inconspicuously started with a temporary driving range in July 2010 in Porters Lane, North Maleny, on what was previously a dairy farm. Planning and construction of the first nine holes of the course then began and were completed and opened for play in July 2015. This has since been extended to a full 18 holes. The club has initially operated out of two shipping containers since 2017.
In 2026, a new clubhouse is standing proud at Maleny Golf Club, and it went from nothing but the stumps to a complete structure in just two days. The clubhouse consists of seven modules that have been made off-site at Coolum and transported to the club location. The cost of this project is $1.7 million. The club funded expansion of the building’s original footprint from 422 to 483 square metres by adding an extra module now, rather than later as previously planned. It is expected that this will futureproof the clubhouse for at least the next 10-to-15 years.
The next stage is where the real work begins - electrical, plumbing, and all the finishing touches that will bring this beautiful facility to life over the next four to six weeks.
It is hoped that all construction and handover of the premises to the Maleny Golf Club will be completed by early August 2026.
To contact the Maleny Golf Club, visit their website at: https://www.malenygolfclub.com.au/contact
https://issuu.com/Maleny-Grapevine-Community-News
Around Glass house Electorate with Mr Andrew Powell M.P.
Even the heavens opening couldn’t dampen the Maleny community’s enthusiasm as we commemorated ANZAC Day 2026
Nobody quite does ANZAC Day like the Maleny RSL at their Witta Cemetery Service.
Some years ago, they identified (and commemorated with a white cross) every returned serviceman and woman that lies in rest at this picturesque cemetery.
During the service, we disburse to the graves and as the bugle plays “The Last Post”, we remember their sacrifice #lestweforget.
No ANZAC Day Ceremony would be complete without the obligatory traditional ceremonial drink with Maleny’s Mathew Howard.
Community Groups Grants
The next round of the Community Groups Grants closes on Friday, May 22nd. These awards are designed to provide a bit of a helping hand to community groups for equipment or expenses, or individuals wishing to pursue sporting or academic ventures. On offer are four $250 grants four times a year to groups or individuals from across the Glass House electorate, so if you would like to apply, please complete the nomination form at: https://andrewpowell.com.au/local-heroes-grant/. Glassies Gala Celebration
Don’t forget the Glassies Gala Celebration on Tuesday, 19th May. This year marks the 10th anniversary of these awards. They will be held at the Mooloolah Country Club on Tuesday, 19th May 2026 between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. Bookings can be made online at: https://www.trybooking.com/events/1569293/sessions/6370945/sections/3023111/tickets
To contact Cr Winston Johnston winston.johnston@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au
More roadworks for Maleny township area!
The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) is undertaking road maintenance in Maleny, with asphalt and drainage works scheduled to begin from early May 2026.
Asphalt works (night)
A 1.4km section of Maleny-Kenilworth Road (locally known as Macadamia Drive, Cedar Street, and Beech Street) from Dixon Avenue to Myrtle Street will be resurfaced at night. Works include pavement repairs, asphalt replacement, shoulder grading, surface drainage, turfing, topsoil, and linemarking. These works are expected to take approximately two weeks to complete, weather and construction conditions permitting.
Drainage works (day)
Drainage works will also take place on Beech Street (top road) during the day. These works build on drainage activities that began in December 2025. Following further assessment, TMR will now fully replace the culvert rather than undertake the originally planned partial replacement. While this represents a larger piece of work, it will deliver a more durable and reliable drainage solution for the community. The day works are expected to take up to three weeks to complete, weather and construction conditions permitting. For the safety of motorists and roadworkers, Beech Street (top road) will be temporarily closed for the duration of the drainage works and asphalting this road section, including nights and weekends.
Motorists will be detoured via Bean, Tamarind, and Teak streets. Locals may also use Cedar Street for westbound travel. The total project duration is approximately one month as some works will be done concurrently.
POLITICAL COMMENT MADE BY Prime Minister Anthony Albanese “His government had “no plans” to attack property investment.”
Just some local news from Fisher
Mr. Andrew Wallace Federal MP for Fisher
Australia is facing some big decisions on energy, cost of living, immigration, national security, and government transparency. These are not abstract policy debates; they affect every family, business, and community across the country.
That’s why I’ve launched The Andrew Wallace Big Picture Poll to hear directly from you about what matters most.
This short community survey gives you the chance to share your views on key national and local issues, from net zero and cost-ofliving pressures to housing, health, and infrastructure. It’s about shaping the direction of the country from the ground up, not the top down.
https://andrewwallacemp.com.au/big-picture-poll/
I’ve launched my Youth Survey to hear directly what matters most to you, cost of living, jobs, housing, mental health and your future.
Have your say and go in the draw to
This is your chance to be heard. I’ll take your feedback straight to Canberra and use it to shape my work for the Sunshine Coast.
Complete the survey now, link in my bio.
https://linktr.ee/andrewwallacemp68
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
Around Maleny following a hail storm in 1916.
There have been several such hail storms over the years with one in the 2024
On this day in history April 3rd
On May 1st, 1891, in Australian history, was the 1891 inaugural May Day march in Barcaldine, Queensland , driven by the shearers' strike.
Near the Barcaldine railway station, under a spreading gum tree, meetings began to take place, and the idea of forming a union was born. This tree is now history and is known now as the “Tree of Knowledge”. Unfortunately, it was poisoned in 2006.
Striking shearers held a protest march in Barcaldine, which involved at least 1,300 strikers marching under the Eureka Flag. Hundreds of marchers were on horseback.
The protest was purposefully timed to coincide with the International Day of Protest. The 1891 shearers' strike is one of Australia's earliest and most important industrial disputes. The dispute was primarily between unionised and nonunionised wool workers.
The shearers were defeated that year, but their actions had a defining legacy on the development of the Labor Party – and the inauguration of a new tradition for the labour movement: the celebration of May Day down under.
It now commemorates the granting of the eight-hour working day for Australians. It's an annual public holiday.
An Old Codger’s Thoughts & Opinions
What are high levels of migration doing to Australian Society?
High levels of migration can bring important benefits to Australia, including new skills, workers, and taxpayers. However, when migration grows faster than housing, infrastructure, and public services can keep up, there are real costs for society.
The most obvious pressure is on housing. Australia has experienced strong population growth in recent years, largely driven by overseas migration, while home construction has lagged behind. This has increased competition for rentals and pushed up house prices in many cities. Vacancy rates remain very low, and many Australians are now spending a record share of their income on rent.
Migration also places pressure on roads, public transport, hospitals, schools, and utilities. Most new arrivals settle in major cities such as Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne, where congestion and stretched services are already common. Planning experts warn that without stronger coordination between migration, infrastructure, and housing policy, these pressures will continue to worsen.
Some critics argue that large migration intakes can place downward pressure on wages in lower-skilled sectors, particularly where there is strong competition for entry-level jobs. This can affect younger Australians and people already struggling to find work. At the same time, businesses often benefit from a larger labour pool, especially in industries with staff shortages.
There is also a broader social concern that rapid population growth can reduce community cohesion if governments fail to invest in integration, transport, health services, and local facilities. When people feel that living standards are falling, frustration can grow regardless of whether migrants themselves are responsible.
At the same time, it is important not to blame migrants for every problem. Many economists argue that poor planning, restrictive housing policies, and slow infrastructure delivery are major causes of Australia’s housing and cost-of-living pressures. Migrants often fill important jobs, pay taxes, and contribute to economic growth. The real issue is not migration itself, but migration levels that exceed Australia’s ability to provide enough homes, services, and infrastructure.
Let both your local members, State, and Federal know your feelings about this matter and hope some action is taken to relieve the population pressure.
Truthful Jones says And he swears that it 100% true - No Bulls##t”
Truthful Jones tells of the time that he was flying to see friends in Sydney.
He went to the Brisbane airport and was surprised to find that there was a security scare in full operation. An individual, later discovered to be a state school teacher, was arrested trying to board a flight while in possession of a ruler, a protractor, a square, a slide rule, and a calculator.
Queensland’s Attorney General believes the man is a member of the notorious Al-gebra movement.
He is being charged with carrying weapons of math instruction.
“Al-gebra is a very fearsome cult, indeed”, the Attorney General said. “They desire average solutions by means and extremes, and sometimes go off on a tangent in a search of absolute value. They consist of quite shadowy figures, with names like “x” and “y”, and, although they are frequently referred to as “unknowns”, we know they really belong to a common denominator and are part of the axis of medieval with coordinates in every country.
“As the great Greek philanderer Isosceles used to say, there are three sides to every triangle.”
When asked to comment on the arrest, Premier David Crisafullisaid, “If God had wanted us to have better weapons of math instruction, He would have given us more fingers and toes.”
Whilst having a meal at the Maleny Hotel the other night a bloke walks into the bar wearing one thong (flip flop).
I asks him "What happened mate? Did you lose a thong?”
The guy replies, "Nah mate, I found one!".
Ebenezer Child Care Trust in Livingston South Africa. …and the connection with the Maleny Community
The Ebenezer Child Care Trust (ECCT) is a faithbased, non-profit organisation based in Livingstone, Zambia, passionate about making a profound and sustainable difference in the lives of vulnerable children and, where necessary, their families. Many of the children come from difficult backgrounds like abuse, HIV/AIDS, or poverty. Their mission is to provide a caring, empowering environment and an opportunity for every vulnerable child in their care to live life in all its fullness.
Australia’s involvement with Ebenezer Child Care Trust began even before ECCT itself. In the 1990s, Lenore and Richard Burton lived in Gaborone, Botswana, alongside Dr Nagi and Ranji Chara, and Stig and Sherston Carlsson. Then the Carlssons moved to England to live.
In the late 1990s, Lenore and Richard Burton moved to Maleny to live and resided in Tamarind Street for a number of years.
Around the 2000s, the Charas returned to Livingstone, Zambia, where Ranji began feeding street children under a tree. This grew into renting homes for them and later establishing a primary school. The Carlssons began raising funds to support the work, encouraging Lenore in Australia to do the same.
By 2005, Lenore and Richard had established Friends of Ebenezer Australia to formalise fundraising. In 2006, they made their first visit to ECCT as Ranji was purchasing the land at Nakatindi, where the children’s village now stands.
Lenore continued to work raising funds for Ebenezer between 2003 and 2017, when Lorraine and Ray Thomas took over the work.
Essential child support, such as education, healthcare advocacy, nutrition, skill development, and spiritual growth, is provided. A "Person of
Peace" is identified in each family to ensure the child’s well-being and long-term stability. Between 2009 and 2013, Australia not only sent over $1.5 million USD to support the work in Zambia, along with other volunteers, Lenore and Richard regularly travelled to Livingstone to support the building of the children’s houses and babies’ home.
Their fundraising also funded part of the purchase costs of a farm and the schools and the equipment used in the school.
Residents of the orphanage work on the farm as well as attending school and their other home duties. The farm is used to produce various foodstuffs, which are used to feed not only those at the orphanage but also people in the surrounding area who also have problems providing food for their families.
The statistics on the first page of their website show the commitment to the underprivileged children of Livingstone. To find out more, visit their website at: https://www.ebenezerzambia.org/
Stevie and Cyril attend ANZAC Day remembrance in Maleny
The morning air in Maleny carried that soft, cool hush that comes just before something important begins. A faint mist clung to the rolling green hills, and the town seemed to breathe slowly, respectfully, as though it too remembered.
Stevie, a tan dachshund with earnest brown eyes and slightly too-short legs for his enthusiasm, trotted carefully along the footpath. At his side, moving with a quiet, fluid grace, was Cyril—a threemetre carpet snake whose calm presence balanced Stevie’s nervous energy perfectly. “Are we early?” Stevie asked, glancing up.
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Cyril flicked his tongue thoughtfully. “Early is respectful,” he replied. “And today is a day for respect.”
They reached the main street where folding chairs had already been set up. Flags fluttered gently, their colours muted in the soft light. A few townspeople stood quietly, speaking in hushed tones. Some wore medals pinned neatly to jackets. Others simply stood with hands clasped. Stevie slowed.
“I can feel something,” he said softly. “It’s not sad… but it’s not happy either.”
Cyril nodded. “It’s remembrance.”
They made their way across the street and settled themselves opposite the saluting dais. Stevie sat upright, paws neatly together, trying very hard to look as dignified as possible. Cyril coiled beside him, his patterned body forming a quiet, protective circle.
For a moment, neither of them spoke.
A breeze passed through, carrying with it the faint scent of eucalyptus and something older— something like stories lingering in the air.
“Cyril,” Stevie whispered, “why do they march?”
Cyril took a long breath before answering. “They march for those who cannot.”
Stevie tilted his head. “Because they’re gone?”
Continued on next Page
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Stevie and Cyril attend ANZAC Day remembrance
“Yes,” Cyril said gently. “Gone, but not forgotten. Each step is a memory. Each uniform, a story.”
Stevie looked toward the empty road where the parade would soon appear. “Do you think they were scared?”
Cyril’s voice was quiet. “Courage doesn’t mean not being scared. It means going forward even when you are.”
Stevie thought about that. His small chest rose and fell as he tried to understand something much bigger than himself.
The sound came first—distant, steady, unmistakable. Boots—drums— cheering crowd!
The low murmur of a gathering crowd falling silent.
Stevie straightened instantly. “They’re coming.”
The parade turned into the street, led by a lone figure carrying the Australian flag. Behind him came rows of veterans, their steps measured, their faces set with quiet strength. Some were old, moving slowly but proudly. Others were younger, walking with a different kind of weight in their eyes.
Stevie watched every single one.
As they approached the dais, the command rang out, sharp and clear. The march shifted—heads turned, arms moved in unison.
Cyril lowered his head slightly.
Stevie did the same. Neither spoke.
Continued from previous Page MAMA
Make Australia Make Again!
in Maleny
A man in a wheelchair passed by, his chest covered in medals that caught the morning light. Stevie noticed how the crowd leaned in just slightly, as if trying to hold him up with their gaze.
If you want to live in a country that builds things you have to buy things that your country builds!
As this man drew level with them, Stevie instinctively lowered his head, his ears drooping in quiet respect. Cyril followed, easing his long body lower until his head rested gently on the ground. The man slowed, his wheels crunching softly on the
Continued on next Page
Maleny Paint Supplies
6/14 Lawyer Street, Maleny. Ph 54942002
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CUTEK® timber oils offer powerful protection while enhancing the natural beauty of timber! pavement, and with a small, warm smile, he reached down to give Stevie a gentle pat between the ears.
Stevie and Cyril attend ANZAC Day remembrance in Maleny
Cyril, too, was motionless, his long body resting quietly, as though even he did not wish to disturb the moment.
Stevie stayed perfectly still, his tail giving only the faintest tremble. Then the man glanced at Cyril. Without hesitation, Cyril arched his back slightly, lifting the middle of his body in a calm, offering gesture. Understanding, the man leaned over and placed his hand softly on Cyril’s raised back, giving it a slow, appreciative pat.
For a brief moment, there was no parade, no crowd —just a quiet exchange of respect between three souls who understood, in their own ways, what the day meant.
“Cyril…” Stevie whispered, his voice trembling. “He can’t march.”
Cyril’s eyes followed the man. “But he still stands, in his own way.”
Stevie swallowed hard.
The parade continued—units, cadets, families carrying photographs. One young girl walked carefully, holding a framed picture against her chest. She looked straight ahead, her face determined, but her eyes shimmered.
Stevie felt something tighten inside him.
“She’s walking for someone too, isn’t she?”
“Yes,” Cyril said. “Someone she never met… but will always know.”
The last of the marchers passed, and the street fell into a deep, resonant silence. Then came the bugle.
The first note of the Last Post hung in the air, clear and piercing. It seemed to stretch across the hills, into the trees, into the very ground beneath them.
Stevie didn’t move— he didn’t fidget. He didn’t even breathe properly. For once, his usual restless energy was completely still.
When the final note faded, it left behind a silence so full it almost felt like sound.
Then, softly, the Reveille began.
A return. A reminder. A promise. Stevie blinked, and a single tear slipped down his small snout.
“I didn’t know them,” he said quietly. “But I feel like I miss them.”
Cyril looked at him with something like pride. “That means you understand.”
The crowd began to stir again—gentle movement, quiet conversations, the slow return to ordinary life. But something had changed.
Or perhaps something had simply been remembered.
Stevie stood up, stretching his little legs.
“Cyril,” he said, “do you think it matters that we came?”
Cyril uncoiled slowly, lifting his head to look out over the town. “It always matters,” he said. “Every witness keeps the memory alive.”
Stevie nodded, absorbing that.
They began to walk back down the street, past the folding chairs and the lingering groups of people.
A man paused to nod at them. A child pointed and smiled. Life, in all its small, gentle ways, continued.
But Stevie walked differently now. Slower. More thoughtful.
As they walked back towards home, the mist had begun to lift, revealing the bright green of the hills under a strengthening sun.
“Thanks to all for your service.”
WITHHOLDING TAX REQUIREMENTS
SELLING PROPERTY!
With Tove Easton of Easton Lawyers, Maleny
If you’re selling Australian real estate in Queensland (vacant land, buildings, residential and commercial property), with a market value of $750,000.00 or more there is a capital gains withholding requirement of 12.5%. The buyer is responsible for withholding the amount and sending it to the tax authorities.
To avoid any monies being withheld, the sellers need to apply and be eligible for a clearance certificate from the ATO. The seller is required to provide the buyer with a Clearance Certificate and on receipt of this (each seller to provide) no amount will be withheld.
However, if a clearance certificate cannot be obtained prior to settlement, the required sum will be withheld (remitted to the ATO)
and the seller/s will need to lodge an income tax return and claim a credit for the amount withheld.
Foreign resident vendors may apply for a variation of the withholding rate or make a declaration that a membership interest is not an indirect Australian real property interest and therefore not subject to withholding.
When we are acting for you in a sale, we can attend to this on your behalf.
At Easton Lawyers our Senior Associate, Michelle Kleinig would be happy to assist you, understand your obligations under the Corporations Act, please don’t hesitate to contact us on (07)5494 3511
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 07 5494 3511
Monday to Friday btn 08:30 and 17:00 AEST.
Tove Easton
Easton Lawyers are your Local Lawyers in Maleny. Whilst the practice has had a few name changes over its 30 plus years, it has been owned by Tove Easton since 2007.
Easton Lawyers remains an integral part of a wonderful, diverse community,
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
Glasshouse Small Business Awards
Voting for your people to receive awards in the Glassies Business awards is coming towards a close, the last day for voting will be Sunday May 3rd. The official presentations will be made at the Glassies Gala Celebrations on Tuesday May 19th
Long termed Easton Staff members, Valli Benoit and Jenny Buzaki have been nominated nominated! So please jump on to this link and vote, https://andrewpowell.com.au/glassies-2026/#vote
King Charles III and Queen Camilla have just finished a quick trip to the United States of America in an effort to “tidy up” the difference of opinion between President Trump, an avowed royalist, and the Prime Minister of England, Keir Starmer, over the war in Iran.
Who would believe it, but one piece of information emerged from the trip. It has emerged that King Charles III and Donald Trump are distant relatives, identified as 15th cousins. According to genealogical research, they share a common ancestor in the 3rd Earl of Lennox, a Scottish nobleman from the 16th century. This connection is traced through the Scottish lineage of Highland Clan Chiefs, the Mackays and the McLeods, subsequently arriving at Donald Trump's mother, Mary Anne MacLeod.
In 1930, Mary McLeod set off to the US for a new life and would wed real estate tycoon Fred Trump, and one of the five children she bore was Donald Trump.
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
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
In another time and place I have been involved in juvenile criminality and I must say that juvenile crime today is taking a new direction, and not one that society could be happy with. Not only are younger people becoming more criminally minded, but that criminality is becoming more violent. It is changing the face of Australian society for the worse. The simple answer is not “to lock up juvenile criminals and throw away the key”.
Youth behaviour and criminality have always been a topic for the adult population to judge and complain about. In most cases, that judgement was not justified as the behaviours were experimentation and boundary pushing.
Today, juvenile criminality has taken another step, and the rules of engagement have changed.
Youth is a period of rapid development, exploration, and identity formation. While most adolescents navigate this phase reasonably successfully, a subset of young people veer toward criminal behaviour. Let us be clear here and realise that the majority of really serious juvenile crimes are committed by a small number of the juvenile population, and it is that part of society that more effort should be put into remedying the situation.
Understanding the multifaceted drivers behind this transition is essential for educators, policymakers, and communities aiming to intervene early and effectively. There are many
factors that lead to juvenile criminality. Psychological, social, economic, and environmental factors all contribute to youth criminality. Prevention strategies and the role of restorative justice in mitigating the cycle of crime need to be reviewed to ensure whatever efforts are used are effective .
During adolescence, the brain undergoes significant structural changes and continues to mature into the mid-20s.
A brain’s slow development can lead to heightened risk-taking and impulsivity, making youth more susceptible to engaging in delinquent acts when exposed to tempting situations.
Personality Traits and Mental Health
Untreated mental health issues— depression, anxiety, ADHD, and conduct disorders—can exacerbate impulsivity and reduce empathy, increasing the likelihood of criminal acts. Early identification and intervention through counselling and psychiatric care can mitigate
these risks. Perhaps ADHD, which is blamed for the increasing number of youths being diagnosed as mentally ill, is rising as ADHD diagnoses are driven by increased awareness, reduced stigma, better recognition in adults and women, and social media prevalence.
Adolescents are also in a constant search for identity. Peer groups often provide a sense of belonging, but they can also exert powerful pressure to conform to norms that may include criminal behaviour.
The desire to be accepted can override internal moral compasses, especially when peers glorify or reward illicit activities.
As a result, it is important that youth activities and those who join those activities should be overseen from a young age. This is well demonstrated by those who join gangs— a wanting to be with others like-minded people.
See next Page
Family Structure and Parenting
The family environment is the single most important factor in influencing juvenile behaviour. Let us face it— it is a fact that many parents in these times, for whatever reason, are just not good parents or good role models.
Family cohesion, consistent discipline, and emotional support are protective factors against youth crime. Conversely, family dysfunction—parental divorce, domestic violence, or neglect— can create environments where adolescents feel alienated and seek validation elsewhere. Parenting styles that are overly authoritarian or permissive can also influence risk-taking behaviours. Let us face the fact that as adults, in employment, we have to have a certificate to ensure that we can properly carry out a task and do it in a safe manner. Not so with parenting—
Continued from Previous Page
maybe there is some improvement needed in this area.
Socioeconomic Status
Economic hardship often correlates with higher rates of youth crime. Poverty can limit access to quality education, extracurricular activities, and stable housing, pushing adolescents toward illegal means of income or status. Additionally, neighbourhoods with high unemployment rates may foster a culture where crime is seen as a viable survival strategy.
School Environment
Schools serve as critical socialisation agents. Positive school climates—characterised by supportive teachers, inclusive policies, and extracurricular opportunities—can deter delinquency. In contrast, schools plagued by bullying, low academic expectations, or inadequate resources may inadvertently encourage students to seek alternative avenues for
recognition, including criminal acts.
School environments have changed over the past fifty or so years, and the laissez-faire attitudes allowed of students are having a direct effect on behaviours. No longer is the use of a penalty used. The standard punishment is to expel the wayward student for a time. Those who are likely to be in this group see their expulsion as a “badge of honour or a reward”. This increases the likelihood that that student will not be well educated, and as a result, many will suffer all their adult life, most likely leading to a life of crime.
Community and Environmental Factors
Neighborhoodcrime rates expose youths to role models who engage in illicit behaviours. Observational learning theory suggests that repeated exposure
See next Page
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.
https://issuu.com/Maleny-Grapevine-Community-News
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to criminal acts normalises those acts, reducing the perceived severity of such actions. This lifestyle is often handed down to younger generations of that family. Moreover, limited legitimate opportunities for recreation or employment can push adolescents toward crime as a means of social mobility.
Media and Technology
The portrayal of violence and criminality in media—films, music, video games—can influence adolescents’ perceptions of acceptable behaviours. While the causal link remains debated, repeated exposure to glorified crime may desensitise youths and lower their inhibitions.
Social media platforms also provide spaces for peer reinforcement of risky behaviours, including drug use, vandalism, and cyberbullying.
Violence is seen as not being realistic by many who play that style of game.
Substance Abuse
Substance use is both a risk factor and a consequence of youth crime. Alcohol and drugs impair judgement, increase aggression, and can lead to crimes such as theft or assault. Additionally, the drug trade itself offers a lucrative, albeit dangerous, avenue for
income, especially in marginalised communities.
Criminal Justice System
The “school-to-prison pipeline” illustrates how punitive disciplinary measures in schools can funnel youths into the criminal justice system. Zero-tolerance policies often result in suspensions, expulsions, and referrals to juvenile courts, disproportionately affecting minority and low-income students. Early criminal records can hinder future employment, education, and social integration, perpetuating a cycle of crime.
Legal Frameworks
Sentencing laws that impose harsh penalties for non-violent offences can deter youth from seeking rehabilitation. Conversely, restorative justice programs that focus on accountability, restitution, and community service can reduce recidivism by addressing underlying causes and fostering empathy.
Perhaps the introduction of Youth reform schools or Special Assistance Schools or Youth Justice Schools should be considered and trialled. Such specialised schools could provide a non-traditional education. These centres could be designed to support at-risk
youth, young offenders, and those disengaged from mainstream education.
They could also teach basic skills that youth need to progress through life. They could also support those attending to obtain basic skills to be able to get some employment rather than just relying on social security to exist, as this subsequently leads to a life of crime.
Social Services
Access to mental health care, substance abuse treatment, and family counselling is uneven across regions. Gaps in these services leave many youths without the support needed to navigate challenges, increasing the likelihood of turning to crime as a coping mechanism.
The introduction of youth reform schools would give a better insight into the mental health of those attending and thus a better system of receiving treatment is encountered.
Prevention and Intervention Strategies = Early Identification
Screening tools in schools and primary care settings can identify at-risk youths. Early intervention —through counselling, mentorship, and academic support—can redirect trajectories before criminal behaviour takes root.
Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636. See next Page
Community Programs
After-school programs, sports leagues, and arts initiatives provide constructive outlets for energy and creativity.
Community centres that offer tutoring, job training, and life skills workshops empower youths to pursue legitimate goals.
Family Engagement
Parenting workshops that teach effective communication, consistent discipline, and emotional support can strengthen family bonds. Family therapy can address underlying conflicts and improve overall household functioning.
Policy Reforms
Revising school disciplinary policies to emphasise restorative practices over punitive measures can reduce the school-to-prison pipeline. Expanding access to mental health services and substance abuse treatment, especially in underserved areas,
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can address root causes of delinquency.
Restorative Justice
Restorative justice programs involve offenders, victims, and community members in dialogue, fostering accountability and empathy. Evidence shows that such programs reduce recidivism rates among juveniles, especially when combined with mentorship and skill-building components.
Conclusion
Youth criminality is a complex phenomenon rooted in an interplay of biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors.
While adolescence is a period of heightened vulnerability, it also offers a window of opportunity for intervention.
By fostering supportive family environments, enhancing school climates, providing community resources, and reforming punitive
policies, society can redirect at-risk youths toward constructive paths.
Restorative justice, in particular, offers a promising framework that balances accountability with rehabilitation, breaking the cycle of crime and building healthier communities.
All of these programs will cost a lot of money and be a heavy drain on the country’s budgets; however, just how much are we presently spending on programs to counter youth crime and not get any resolution to the problem?
Letting the present situation continue will only make the problems greater in the future.
Our youth are our future, and without them, Australia has no future!
Soon - a toilet in every car!!
Chinese car maker Seres has been granted a patent for what it calls an "in-vehicle toilet" that slides under a passenger's seat for visits to the loo while on the road. The toilet design shows that it sits on rails beneath the passenger seat.
The onboard toilet that slides out from the bottom of a passenger's seat is activated by voice-activated commands.
It will come with a fan and exhaust pipe to channel odours out of the car. Waste is collected in a tank that has to be emptied manually. The toilet also features a rotating heating element that evaporates urine and dries other waste. It is not the first, though, as in the 1950s, a special version of a Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith included an in-built television set and a toilet beneath the passenger seat. If you’ve ever been stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic with nowhere to go, then maybe it is a good idea. However, it does make one wonder if there is a huge market out there of people who would want this option fitted to their vehicle, and additionally, I wonder what colours it will come in!!!
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! Autumn is now upon us and it won’t be long before winter is here.
Formulated to promote healthy growth and colour in all plant types including potted colour; ornamental shrubs; hanging baskets and herbs & veggies
Contains Up Rite, a controlled release fertiliser for quicker greening with added minerals providing essential nutrition for strong up rite growth
Contains Trace Elements that are vital for healthy plant growth elements including magnesium, iron, zinc, copper and sulphur
Contains Coir Fibre, a renewable resource made from the outer shell of a coconut aids in water absorption and retention allowing air and nutrients to move about within the mix
Contains Zeolite, a safe natural mineral that allows the potting mix to store and release moisture and nutrients to the plant
Contains Seaweed which provides vitamins and minerals
Contains Water Crystals for added increase water storage capacity
Certified Product Australian Standard AS 3743
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/
David Lowden, owner of Maleny Tree Services has the team, machinery and expertise to give you peace of mind when it comes to beautifying your property, large or small or pruning or removing trees that add to fire hazards.
Our long experience of living and working in the Hinterland means we can provide practical advice and a free quote based on your needs.
Local Community News
Maleny Senior Citizens Notes
MANAGEMENT MEETINGS ARE NORMALLY THE 3RD MONDAY AND GENERAL MEETING 4TH MONDAY EACH MONTH
May 2026
BUSY NEEDLES 7th and 21 sh
INDOOR BOWLS 6th, 13th and 20th 27th
DROP IN 1st, 8th, 15th and 22nd (Probably NO Drop In 29th SHOW DAY
COMMITTEE MEETING 18th (at Marilyns at 8.30am)
GENERAL MEETING … 25th - 9.30a.start
Movies … 24th starting at 2p.m.
June 2026
BUSY NEEDLES 9 th and 23 rd
INDOOR BOWLS 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th
DROP IN 1st, 8th, 15th and 22nd (Probably NO Drop In 29th as it is SHOW DAY
COMMITTEE MEETING … 18th at Marilyns - 8.30am
GENERAL MEETING 25th 930am start with the usual happenings.
Movies … 26th. - 2p.m.
Bus Trip … 16th 8am departure from Maleny showgrounds.
For those who wish to march in the Anzac Day parade on the 25th we will meet at the Bus Stop near Imeldas. The time will be confirmed closer to the day.
“Most happenings at seniors start at 9am unless otherwise specified. For more information phone Margaret on 0409 266 507.
Witta Recreational Club
✦ Thursday 14th May, 2026. - Short Film Festival at the Maleny CommunityCentre. Tickets at: https://events.humanitix.com/ heart-of-gold-on-tour-2026
✦ Saturday 2nd – Monday 4th May, 2026, the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Writers Festival. Around various locations.
✦ Tuesday 5th May, 2026 - Tesch Park, Maleny. - 2026 Candlelight Ceremony to remember those who have died as a result of Domestic Violence.
✦ Malenu Show: Friday 29th and Saturday 30th May 2026.
✦ Maleny Yarn Market Saturday 4th + 5th July 2026 Various locations around Maple Street, Maleny.
✦ Saturday 3 October 2026 Maleny Garden Club Spring Fair,
✦ DATE UNKNOWN AT THIS TIME: Maleny Arts and Crafts Autums Fair - Maleny Community Centre
To add your local organisation events to this list simply email details to: thegrapevine@westnet.com.au
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 Calendar of Events 2026.
You can keep “”Up to Date” with Maleny
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
“Old age takes away what we've inherited, and gives us what we've earned.”
A Senior’s thoughty!
“I started with nothing and still have most of it left.”
“How quickly changes in Maleny” Skipper - Musk Teahouse Lookout
William Musk had come to Australia in 1910 from Surry, England and settled in Landsborough. In 1914 he enlisted in the Australian Army and returned to England and served in both Gallipoli and France. In 1917 he was wounded and returned to England to recuperate. There he met and married Daisy Dowcra. She came to Australia as a War Bride. They settled at Bald Knob where Mrs Musk and a neighbour Mrs Skipper set up a tea house to provide for travellers and bullock dray drivers.
