One of the Sunshine Coast’s grand traditions and the people who made it possible have been honoured via a special documentary.
The Maleny Show and its volunteers, who have persevered through wars, droughts and floods, will be featured in a free community screening at Landsborough Museum on July 12.
The film shares the stories and memories of many people closely involved with the show over the years, including Kayrene Corkin, Bill Hankinson, Marlene Hankinson, Winston Johnston, Ed Lawley, Desley Malone, Monica Skerman and Lois White.
Maleny Show Society president and Division 5 Councillor Winston Johnston said the film marked a significant milestone in the hinterland town.
“The Maleny Show was first held on April 24, 1923, at the Maleny Showgrounds and has been held there ever since,” he said.
“The show’s success has been the result of the Maleny Show Society, an organisation which has made a significant contribution to the region over the past 10 decades, and their hardworking volunteers who prepare for many months to put on the event.
“The film preserves an essential part of our Sunshine Coast heritage through the stories of these volunteers and captures the smells, sounds and sights of show time.
“It is only because of these volunteers’ efforts over the past 100 years that we are now able to interpret this incredible story.”
Final filming wrapped up over the Maleny Show weekend, allowing for the inclusion of the showground 100 years on, drawing intriguing parallels between the show’s humble beginnings and today’s modern pavilions and pursuits.
During the event’s early years, the facilities were sparse.
Meals and refreshments were served under a tent on the hill before the showground pavilion was completed in 1924.
The rich farming culture and dairy cattle industry was showcased in breath-taking parades and exhibits which drew crowds of people from far and wide to the Maleny district.
Since then, the show program has grown to include wood chopping shows, show bags and carnival rides.
The film is an initiative of the Sunshine Coast Council Arts and Heritage Levy program.
The levy, which is charged to every rateable property, is used to document, research, conserve, protect, promote and provide access to those tangible and intangible items, places, facilities and events that define the stories, history and values of the people, communities and culture of the Sunshine Coast.
The event is free however, bookings are essential.
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