Maleny Grapevine Community News and Maleny District Sports Club Results for the period to 18.07.2025

Page 1


Muscle on the Mountain 2025

Perfect weather at Maleny for the 2025 Apex Muscle on the Mountain Car Show and Shine day ensured a large crown and record number of cars on display.

Continues Page 2

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

Published by

Maleny Paint Supplies Pty. Ltd

Shed 6/14 Lawyer Street, Maleny. 4552 Contact Phone 0754942002

Over the past 30 days there have been 4118 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.

Maleny Muscle on the Mountain

2025

The annual Muscle on the Mountain hosted by the Maleny Apex Club and the Maleny Show Society, has continued to grow in size each year, and this year’s turnout was a bumper. Whilst the final figures were not available at the time of writing this the display cars topped 900 and a conservative estimate of people through the gate exceeded 5000.

The Maleny Apex Club uses this day to raise funds for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia and a number of other local charities and organisations.

Two of the crowd favourite vehicles were a 1915 Model T Ford and a De Dion-Bouton from prior to the WW1 era. During World War I, this French company made gun parts, armoured vehicles, and aircraft engines, as well as cars and trucks, but after the war, inspire of being first to develop the V8 motor did not succeed in producing popular motor vehicles, but moved into narrow gauge railway vehicles.

This was another great event for the Maleny area conducted by co-operation of a number of local service clubs with a common interest.

Maple Street Maleny upgrade

“On again - off again - On again!!

All the way back in 2005 an Initial Community Engagement was undertaken to complete a Maleny Streetscape Concept Plan.

The “on again - delayed again - about ready to go again” Maleny streetscape upgrade on Maple Street has secured almost $3 million in funding in the 2025 -2026 Sunshine Coast Council budget but works are unlikely to begin this year according to Division 5 councillor Winston Johnston.

He said, “This is to avoid disrupting the critical Christmas trading period. This project will uniquely reflect the character and history of Maleny township.

The works had previously been delayed a number of times times due to budget constraints and other planning complication. Detailed design work was completed in April 2023.

The upgrade will deliver four new raised pedestrian crossings, kerb extensions, more shade trees and gardens, new seating and gathering areas, more signage, and heritage and cultural interpretation elements.

Depending on the weather it is expected that the works will take approximately six to eight months to complete, finishing in time for the June 2026 school holidays.

https://issuu.com/Maleny-Grapevine-Community-News

Around Glass house Electorate with Mr Andrew Powell M.P. Queensland Ambulance Upgrade!

We’re investing big in the Queensland Ambulance Service. We’re delivering more than 600 new paramedics and 170 ambulances in our first budget. It’s all part of a $1 billion package the Crisafulli LNP Government is delivering to boost the QAS.

The Crisafulli LNP Government is delivering health services when you need them.

This is on top of the desperate pleas from frontline police officers for equipment they need to replace end-of-life equipment.

We're delivering for our frontline officers to help make our community safer.

Paired with our Making Queensland Safer Laws, this investment will ensure police have the resources they need to arrest Labor's Youth Crime Crisis.

OLYMPIC Games 2032

Funding for the 2032 Delivery Plan is now locked in. Our Crisafulli State Government has reached a deal with the Federal Government that secures funding for generational Games infrastructure. This funding will deliver legacy infrastructure right across the State for 2032 and beyond – including here in Glass House.

Our fully funded 2032 Delivery Plan builds for Queensland’s future.

Commission of Inquiry into CFMEU

We owe it to Queenslanders to get to the bottom of the CFMEU’s intimidation, violence, and bullying with a Commission of Inquiry. This is the most powerful inquiry in the State to give a voice to those made powerless by the CFMEU and their Labor protection racket. This is the spotlight needed to bring the CFMEU out of the shadows.

POLITICAL COMMENT MADE BY

When asked repeatedly about how much the colour change would cost Queensland taxpayers, replied “I’m not playing these silly games”. Well he started the silly game by changing Queensland’s Emblem colour from Maroon to Blue.

Email: sales@conceptsystems.com.au

Phone: (07) 5429 6750

Web: https://www.conceptsystems.com.au/

Trading Hours

Monday - Friday: 9am to 5pm Saturday: 9am to 1pm

Closed Sunday & Public Holidays

Around Division 5 with Cr Winston Johnston

To contact Cr Winston Johnston winston.johnston@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

Sunshine Coast Council proposed new planning scheme

Sunshine Coast young people, it's your future, your say! If you have ideas for how life could be better for young people on the Sunshine Coast, then this is your chance to speak up about what matters most!

We want young people aged 12-24 years to complete the online survey:

https://haveyoursay.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/.../ sunshine...

You could even win a share of $1,500 in prizes. Let’s work together to make the Sunshine Coast an even better place for young people to live!

Landholder Conservation Grants

The Sunshine Coast Council now has opened applications for the 2025 Landholder Environment

Grants, funded through our Environment Levy. Grant applications close on August 25th, 2025. These grants offer up to $15,000 to help landholders undertake vital projects on their properties.

Whether it’s bush regeneration, reducing sediment loss, excluding livestock from waterways, or revegetating degraded areas.

For more information and to apply and search “landholder environment grants" at the email address: https://www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/living-andcommunity/grants-and-funding/grants-programs/ environment-levy-grants/environmentlevy-grants

Just some local news from Fisher

Mr. Andrew Wallace Federal MP for Fisher

Fisher Community News

What happened in Melbourne recently wasn’t a protest, it was hate.

An arson attack on a synagogue. Chairs hurled at Jewish families in a restaurant. And so far, just one arrest. This is horrific antisemitism and it’s un-Australian. We need stronger condemnation, firmer policing, and a united stand against this rising tide of hate.

I’ll be raising this in Parliament. Jewish Australians must never be left to stand alone.

From utes to energy bills, internet to postage, everything’s going up and your pay packet isn't keeping up.

Labor’s cost-of-living crisis is hitting harder than ever, and families across Fisher are feeling it. Whether it’s their new Super Tax or hidden penalties on your next car, this Government’s got its hand deeper in your pocket.

If you know someone going above and beyond in our community, whether it’s in sport, education, business, the environment or community service. Now’s the time to nominate them. Let’s give them the recognition they deserve.

Winners will be announced at a formal Gala Dinner on Friday 19 September at the Sunshine Coast Function Centre, Caloundra RSL.

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/

“ Maleny’s Town Crier, John Stevenson. The Cockney Jokester”

Who could forget that big smile of Maleny’s Town Crier, John Stevenson? He was an iconic character who called Maleny home for nearly 26 years after immigrating to Australia with his wife, Betty, in 1970. Unfortunately, Betty passed away in 2010.

Until his passing in 2018 aged 92, John was involved in many local events as the Town Crier.

John joined the British Army when he was 18 and was among those who landed at Normandy in 1945. Always good for a yarn, he enjoyed telling everyone he "had sex nearly every day.” “Then he would say, 'I nearly had sex on Monday, I nearly had sex on Tuesday, etc.’ RIP John & Betty!

https://issuu.com/Maleny-Grapevine-Community-News

On this day in History July 18th

On the 18 th July 1914 – Maurice Guillaux, a French aviator lands in Sydney – He flew the first airmail delivery from Melbourne to Sydney. During his time in Australia he also gave many aerial displays, was the first person to fly a seaplane in Australia.

Also on July 18, 1933, the first issue of the Australian Women’s Weekly was published. This magazine quickly became one of the most popular and influential publications in the country. It was founded by Frank Packer, the magazine aimed to cater to the interests and needs of Australian women.

Also on July 18, 1980, we saw the launch of the Special Broadcasting Service television network (SBS Television) part of the ABC.

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

Queensland Coat of Arms

What is going on with the Queensland Coat of Arms?.

Queen Victoria granted the Queensland Coat of Arms, the oldest State Arms in Australia, to the Colony of Queensland in 1893.

The Coat of Arms symbolises the Queen's constitutional authority in the state. Since August 2012, the Queensland Coat of Arms has been used as the government’s corporate logo. The Queensland Coat of Arms is the formal identifier for the Queensland Government, as well as being used for ministerial and parliamentary purposes.

It has been a long-held, but informal, tradition of using maroon to represent Queensland. Maroon has traditionally been associated with Queensland sport—in particular, the Brisbane Broncos (rugby league) and the Brisbane Lions (AFL) sporting clubs along with Queensland Cricket to name just a few.

The State of Origin football series has a very strong tradition in Queensland and draws a large very loyal following and strong feelings against the opposition, New South Wales whose colour is traditionally blue.. At first I thought that it was an April Fools Day joke, but then I realised that April was long past. Queenslanders have been left in amazement when the government has quietly changed the colour of Queensland's coat of arms – from maroon to blue. This adding salt to the wound when it was announced in the middle of the 2025 State go Origin series.

This announcement is strongly seen by Queenslanders as a capitulation by the Queensland Government to the southern cockroaches. This change is seen as treasonous - not to mention spending taxpayers money that is already weighing heavily on taxpayers.

Can somebody - anybody explain or give a rational reason why this change should be or was made.

Let us hope that this “BRAIN FART” can be reversed!

Truthful Jones says And he swears that it 100% trueNo Bulls##t”

Truthful tells us that he now realises that there are benefits to being over 60 years old. What are they you may ask?

1. Kidnappers are not very interested in you.

2. In a hostage situation you are likely to be released first.

3. No one expects you to run into a burning building to rescue somebody.

4. People call at 9 p.m. and ask, “Did I wake you?”

5. People no longer view you as a hypochondriac.

6. There’s nothing left to learn the hard way.

7. Things you buy now won’t wear out.

8. You can eat your evening meal at 4 p.m.

9. You can’t remember where you saw this observation.

10. You enjoy hearing about other people’s operations.

11. You get into a heated argument about pension plans.

12. You have a party and the neighbours don’t even realise it.

13. You no longer think of speed limits as a challenge.

14. You quit trying to hold your stomach in, no matter who walks into the room.

15. Your supply of brain cells is finally down to a manageable size.

Further information is available on the web site: http://www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/grants

16. Your eyes won’t get much worse.

17. Your investment in health insurance is finally beginning to pay off.

18. Your joints are more accurate meteorologists than the National Weather Service.

19. Your secrets are safe with your friends because they can’t remember them either.

Maybe you can think of some other reasons but the above ones sound just fine to me.

6/14 Lawyer Street, Maleny. Ph 54942002 www.malenypaintsupplies.com

Australian Owned and made brands of Ultra-Premium paints for any project.

“Set out the stages to ensure a good paint job”

One of Australia’s leading paint manufacturers, Haymes Paints, has provided the following list of tips to ensure that you get the best possible paint jobs. By using an ultra-premium paint, you get the best possible finish.

At Maleny Paint Supplies, we supply another Australian-made and owned paint, made and supplied by Colourtrend Paints.

Tip 1

Ensure you check any existing paint to make sure it is suitable for painting by cutting an "X" in the surface with a sharp knife. Then press some tape firmly over the "X" and pull it off. If any existing paint is removed, this means the surface is not suitable for painting and will need to be removed in the form of scraping and sanding it off.

Tip 2

Thoroughly wash away any dirt, dust, and mould as the presence of contaminants on the surface can cause loss of adhesion of the new paint system. The easiest way to clean the area is by pressure washing the surface. Hosing the surface with a garden hose will not produce enough pressure to ensure the surface is clean.

Tip 3

Sand any remaining chalky surfaces to remove all chalk. Ensure any chalky powder is cleaned after chalk removal.

Tip 4

Use a high-quality acrylic exterior paint. Acrylic paints have high UV resistance and last longer than solventbased enamel paints.

Tip 5

Maleny Paint Supplies security dog, Steve has a busy working life!

Paint in the shade, as it will be easier to apply, whereas the sun causes paint to dry too quickly and makes application difficult.

Tip 6

Avoid painting in very windy conditions, as wind also dries paint quickly and can deposit dust onto the painted surface. Do not paint if rain or dew is expected within 24 hours.

Tip 7

Start on the wall areas and finish with the trims. For more information on painting trims and windows, simply watch our DIY video ‘How to Paint Exterior Trims and Windows’.

Tip 8

If you have weatherboards and want how to paint the outside of your house, simply watch our DIY video ‘How to Paint Exterior Weatherboards’. Where to find “How to videos” https://www.haymespaint.com.au/info-centre/

Special Price for this month

Australis Allshield Exterior Ultra Premium. White Base

6 lts - $104.00

Stevie the Security Dog

We have been asked just what does Stevie the Security Dog do when he not doing shop security.

Well, we can say that he loves to get out in the country and have a cruise on his motor cycle. He says that he often meets other “bikies” from Maleny on his journeys.

Keep an eye out you might see him somewhere on his journey!!.

6/14 Lawyer Street, Maleny. Ph 54942002 www.malenypaintsupplies.com Hard Wax Oil for your precious woodwork will save the

Maleny Paint Supplies is now making stand alone cabinets made to measure

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.

My Hints: Yes you can paint your home in winter!!

Painting a house exterior in winter is possible, but requires careful consideration of temperature, humidity, and drying times. While it's generally not ideal, some regions in Australia, like parts of Brisbane, have mild winters with suitable conditions for exterior painting. The key is to monitor weather conditions, especially surface temperatures, and choose the right paint. Plan your painting for the warmest part of the day and ensure the paint has enough time to dry before dew or frost sets in. Remember that curing can take longer in the cooler months so take this info account

Always use a good quality Ultra Premium paint.

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.

In the last two issues I have been discussing the requirements of a valid Will. I thought it would be a good opportunity to continue the train of thought with what could happen should you die without a valid will. If a person dies without a valid Will, that person is said to have died “intestate”.

Dying without a valid will or ‘intestate’ can be very detrimental to your loved ones and also very expensive. Not only have you given away your ability to decide how your estate is to be distributed and to whom but you also run the risk of the costs of administering your estate increasing drastically and your estate being distributed to unintended beneficiaries.

One example of an unintended beneficiary is an estranged spouse from whom the deceased was not formally divorced. That estranged spouse will share in the deceased’s estate under the Queensland intestacy rules despite the deceased and the estranged spouse not being in a relationship at the time of death.

DYING WITHOUT A WILL: WHAT HAPPENS?

With Tove Easton of Easton Lawyers, Maleny

The Succession Act sets out the rules to be applied in situations of intestacy. Here are some examples:

• If you are married/de facto with no children, your spouse takes 100%;

• If you are married/de facto with one child your spouse takes the first $150,000.00 plus the household contents. Assets after this are divided equally between the spouse and the child

• If you are married/de facto with two or more children your spouse takes the first $150,000.00 plus the household contents.

Assets after this are divided 1/3 for the spouse and 2/3 equally between the children.

In situations where you do not have any close relatives the rules provide that your estate must go to relatives that are further removed from you.

Another problem with dying intestate is the need for court

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.

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

approval for the appointment of someone to administer your estate. In a will you would appoint an executor of your choice. However with an intestacy, your loved ones would have to apply to the Supreme Court for an administrator to be appointed. In the absence of a suitable person the Supreme Court may appoint the Public Trustee.

If you are considering a trust or company, please seek legal advice before taking action.

Should you have any questions please contact our office on 07 5494 3511 Monday to Friday between 08:30 and 17:00 AEST.

care everyone! Easton Lawyers

Web Address: http://eastonlawyers.com.au/

Local Tradespersons

Important Emergency Phone Numbers

Emergency (POLICE, FIRE, AMBULANCE): 000

Moreton Bay Regional Council – 3205 0555

Sunshine Coast Council – 5475 7272

Crime Stoppers – 1800 333 000

Policelink – 131 444

Energex general enquiries – 131 253

Loss of electricity supply – 13 62 62

Priority emergency (electrical hazards) – 13 19 62

Unitywater – 1300 086 489

Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800

Lifeline – 131 114

Poison Hotline – 131 126

SES – 132500

Traffic Reports – 131 940

Translink – 131 230 It is always

parts of the world. It is easy to explore through Online Newspapers https://onlinenewspapers.com/index.shtml

International Snake Day

Wednesday 16th July each year is International Snake Day. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about snakes and their important role in the ecosystem

The day aims to dispel negative stereotypes and fear surrounding snakes, promoting a better understanding of their value and the need for their conservation.

Snakes are vital predators, helping to control rodent populations and maintain ecological balance. By all means relocate them away from homes, but please don’t unnecessarily kill them!.

Make Australia Make Again!

If you want to live in a country that builds things you have to buy things that your country builds!

Maleny Community Groups & When they meet!

Community Groups that form the back bone of the Maleny Community

Maleny Rotary Club

Meeting. Times

1st and 3rd Wednesdays. 6-30pm for 7pm

Maleny Hotel, Bunya St. Maleny

Email: secretary.maleny@rotary9600.org president.maleny@rotary9600.org

Maleny

Probus Club Meeting. Times

Maleny Uniting Church, Landsborough Road, Maleny

Meet 10 am on the 4th Wednesday of each month. Feb to November 1300 856 859

Queensland Country Women's Association - Maleny Branch Meetings at

The Verandah Room 23 Maple Street, Maleny 8:00 am - 11:30 am. 4th Monday of Month. Email: qcwa.maleny@gmail.com

The Zonta Club of Blackall Range Meetings at

Various between Montville and Maleny. Dinner meeting 3rd Tuesday of month 6pm. Email: membership@zontablackrange.org.au president@zontablackallrange.org.au

Being a part of a community

Apex Club of Maleny

Meeting. Times

1ST & 3RD MONDAYS, 7.00PM. Email maleny@apex.org.au. Postal PO BOX 39.

MALENY, QLD 4552 0487770653

Maleny

Senior Citizens Meetings at

The Verandah Room 23 Maple Street, Maleny 8:00 am - 11:30 am. 4th Monday of Month. Activities include card games, meetings and regular bus trips

Email: margarry1@bigpond.com 0409 266 507

The LIONS CLUB OF MALENYBLACKALL RANGE Inc. Meetings at

Maleny Uniting Church Hall

On the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6.30pm

Monthly Dinner Meeting held at The Orangery, 10 Mountain View Rd, at 6.30pm on 4th Tuesday of month

Email: maleny-blackall-range@lionsq3.org.au

Maleny Commerce Meetings at

Monthly breakfast networking meetings. 2nd Tuesday of the month. Venues to be advised.

Email: info@malenycommerce.org.au

Maleny Hardware and Rural Supplies is located in the centre of Maleny in the picturesque Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Thy offer good old fashioned service to your car for those heavy items. There is also ample parking at the front and pick up at the rear of the store.

We are independently owned and supply the local community with rural and hardware supplies at competitive prices.

Did you know we can deliver items in surrounding suburbs for a small fee.

Come and browse through our extensive range of products and say hi!

We are an accredited STIHL dealership!

Mi-Feed range of animal feeds stocked

Mi-Feed is a boutique stock feed mill on the Sunshine Coast at Yandina. In operation since 1979, we were the first to incorporate the micronisation process into the manufacture of stock feed. There is a Mi-Feed product for your animals - be it chooks, beef cattle, dairy cattle, horses, pigs or goats - and you don't want to handle a different feed for all of them. MiFeed has developed a number of lines that have a multi-species purpose. Singular micronised grains such as barley or our ever-popular Hobby Farm Mix.

Because the micronisation process gelatinises the starch before it is consumed, the harmful effects of high grain feeding, such as founder, acidosis and overheating, are dramatically reduced, thus providing a “cool” source of energy to the animal.

Check out the Mi-Feed range, including Pasture Boost Pallets at Maleny Rural Traders.

To find out more about the range of Mi Feed products visit: https://www.mi-feed.com.au/ news/

All sides of politics have battled with the question of introducing quotas on women to get more women into parliament. Apart from the fact diversity quotas are guaranteed never to produce the best candidates, they also inevitably lead to disunity not only because they are inherently unfair but create the impression of tokenism.

Unfortunately, for whatever reason, the typical politician is thought to be an older male person, and being a female politician generally is something that has happened more since the middle of the 20th century.

The introduction of gender quotas in politics, while wellintentioned, raises several concerns regarding fairness, merit, and democratic representation. While it is important to encourage greater female participation in parliament, enforcing quotas to achieve this goal may lead to unintended consequences that undermine the very democratic principles it aims to support.

Who cares if every politician was female as long as they were the very best at doing that job?

First and foremost, quotas challenge the principle of meritbased selection. In a democratic society, political candidates should be chosen based on their ability, experience, policy ideas, and capacity to represent their constituents effectively. When quotas are introduced, gender becomes a deciding factor, which can result in capable candidates

being overlooked in favour of less qualified individuals who meet a gender requirement. This can undermine public trust in elected representatives and lead to perceptions that individuals are in office due to their gender, not their merit.

Secondly, quotas are inherently discriminatory. They seek to correct one form of imbalance by introducing another, effectively discriminating against male candidates. In trying to address past gender inequalities, quotas risk violating the principle of equality before the law. True gender equality means providing equal opportunities, not enforcing equal outcomes. Candidates, regardless of gender, should be given the same platform to succeed without artificial advantage.

Quotas also assume that women are often seen as a uniform and unchanging group with a single set of maternal values and behaviours. This is definitely not the case. Women, like men, have diverse political beliefs, values, and experiences.

Simply increasing the number of women in parliament does not guarantee that issues affecting

women will be better addressed. What matters more is the quality of representation and whether elected officials truly advocate for their constituents, regardless of gender.

Moreover, quotas can have a patronising effect. They suggest that women need special help to succeed in politics, which can undermine the achievements of those who rise through merit. Many capable and inspiring women have already earned their place in politics without quotas, proving that it is possible through hard work, ability, and public support. Introducing quotas may unintentionally send the message that women are not capable of competing on a level playing field, which is both untrue and disempowering.

The unfortunate thing is that many politicians see politics as a public service career. Once in office, people tend to stay. Seniority increases influence. Incumbents have big advantages in elections and it’s hard for most people to relinquish power voluntarily.

Thus the former status quo is generally maintained.

See next Page

In addition, quotas risk turning politics into a numbers game rather than focusing on effective governance.

When political parties are forced to meet arbitrary targets, they may prioritise diversity statistics over finding the best candidates for the job. This shift in focus can lower the overall quality of parliamentary debate and decision-making.

We have seen that locally with some past politicians staying in office far longer than they should and it has caused irreparable damage to both our State and the Commonwealth.

Finally, structural and cultural barriers to female participation should be addressed through education, mentorship, flexible work policies, and encouragement—not compulsion. We are seeing that women have and are changing our parliaments, our politics, and our country and enforcing quotas will not change this.

The present approaches empower women to enter and thrive in politics without compromising principles of fairness or equality. Real progress is

made when barriers are removed and opportunity is extended to all, not when representation is enforced through quotas.

We have seen this with the reasonably recent introduction of policies designed to make it more family- and care-friendly.

In conclusion, while the goal of increasing female representation in parliament is valid and worthwhile, gender quotas are not the right tool to achieve it. Encouragement, support, and equal opportunity— rather than enforced numbers—are the more sustainable and principled path forward.

Quotas can be politically divisive. They can create internal tensions within parties and reduce the efficiencies of party operations. They can also lead to backlash from segments of the electorate who view them as unfair or as a form of social engineering.

Rather than introducing quotas, it would be more efficient if the present female politicians serve as role models for young women, encouraging them to take a greater participation in public life.

Queenslanders suffering as a result of the present flu + covid infections

Queensland is presently in the middle of a flu, RSV, and COVID-19 epidemic. Already, 12 people aged between 18 and 64 years have passed away from the flu this year. The total number of flu, RSV, and COVID-19 deaths has reached 84. On top of that, more than 1,150 people aged between 18 and 64 years have been hospitalised because of the flu, RSV, and COVID-19 viruses this year, and these viruses are continuing to spread. These viruses occur every year in the cold season. People mingle more, and there's less social distancing.

Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr Heidi Carroll said: “Flu vaccination rates in Queensland are now lower than national flu vaccination coverage rates for all age groups – despite free flu vaccination being available.” She continued that vaccination was the best way to keep these viruses at bay and not become complacent. It is important to remember that you can infect other people from 24 hours before you have any symptoms to a week afterwards.

Queenslanders are reminded to prioritise good hygiene habits such as washing hands, covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or inside your arm, and staying at home when sick to stop the spread of acute respiratory illnesses.

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/

Did you Know?

That on July 18th 1873 Ayres Rock discovered.

On Friday, July 18, 1873 Explorer William Gosse sights and names Ayers Rock in an accidental discovery after being forced to take a more southerly route due to lack of water.

Explorer William Gosse, of the South Australian Survey Department, became the first European explorer to see Ayers Rock.

Uluru/Ayers Rock, in central Australia, is the second largest monolith in the world, second only to Mt Augustus which is also in Australia. Located in Kata Tjuta National Park 450 km southwest of Alice Springs, Ayers Rock was given its European name to commemorate the former Premier of South Australia, Sir Henry Ayers.

With a circumference of just over 9km, and rising 349 metres above the surrounding plain, Uluru/Ayers Rock is a striking landform.

He said at the time, “This rock is certainly the most wonderful natural feature I have ever seen”.

Local Groups News

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

WEDNESDAY- 6 pm. TWILIGHT BOWLS & BURGER. $17 p.p. Bowls only $12 p.p. Learners welcome, bowls provided. Call Wendy 0438 399 604.

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 way I

see

it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain.”
A Senior’s thoughty!
“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”

How much battery power do I need for my home?

Purchasing a battery is a big decision and you want to make sure you make the right choice – especially when we’re talking about battery size. At Redback, we get it. It’s difficult to know what battery will work best for your home and your lifestyle.

We always recommend talking with an accredited installer in your area, as they’re fully trained to look at all your individual needs and advise on the correct sized system.

RedEarth’s PowerOasis is a fully integrated, ready-to-run and modular Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) catering for the niche 50-400kVA power range.

It has the option to use both the inbuilt solar PV MPPT or AC-coupled solar PV inverters can be added.

Certified Energy Solutions

Battery Rebates now available

The world's largest battery rebate is now in action! It is now a good time to take advantage of considerable savings while the rebate is offered at the maximum rate. The rebate program is being offered right through to 2030 and every year the rebate will drop in value, for the biggest impact it is recommended to proceed in the first two years.

Have a chat with us today for your obligation free quote and design.

And yes, the rebate is available for both grid connected and off grid customers with approved inverters!

Phone Craig on 0408173383 of email info@certifiedenergysolutions.com.au

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

July 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

August 2025

BUSY NEEDLES 14th and 28th

INDOOR BOWLS 4th, 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th

DROP IN 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29t.

COMMITTEE MEETING 18th Usual time and happenings

GENERAL MEETING … 25th 9a.m for 9.30a.m. start

Sausage sizzle … 3 rd Movies … 24th. 2.30p.m. start

“Most happenings at seniors start at 9am unless otherwise specified.

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

Maleny Calendar of Events 2025.

✦ Maleny Players production “Purgatory” at the Playhouse on JJuly 25 at 7pm, July 26 at 2pm and 7pm, July 30 at 7pm, August 1 and August 2 at 7pm and August 3 at 2pm.

✦ Arts Alive Maleny - August 2nd 6p.m.10p.m. More details at https:// events.humanitix.com/arts-alive-maleny

✦ 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

Arts alive Maleny

The Arts Aline Maleny event will be the highlight of Maleny’s 2025 calendar as the community gather to create magic together and enjoy the talents of amazing local artists.

This amazing even, brought to you by Maleny Arts Co-op t will take place in Maple Street, Maleny between 5.30-9.30pm on Saturday August 2nd, 2025.

During that time Maple street, Maleny will close to traffic, and come alive with lanterns, light shows and art projections, live music, street performances.

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.

https://www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/Living-andCommunity/Community-Safety/Disasters/emergencies

Maleny Visitor Information Centre

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

https://www.esafety.gov.au/newsroom/whats-on/safer-internet-day-2023

“1979 - First Electric Passenger Train in Queensland”

On the 17th November 1979 the Darra to Ferny Grove and Mayne Depot sections of passenger rail lines were officially opened for electric passenger trains and this was extended to Ipswich in 1980.

The original electric units (EMU’s) have had their final run on Saturday 5 July departing from Roma Street station and run on the Caboolture, Ipswich, Ferny Grove and Shorncliffe line. The end of an era. They were all built in Maryborough Queensland - not India!

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.