Documented as early as the 1760s, the initial co-operative to arrive in Maleny was the Maleny Co-operative Dairy Co. in 1903. The Maple Street Co-op is a comparative youngster at 45 years old but is still one of the longest-running businesses in the area.
With 1,700 owner/members it provides the local community with ethical and organic produce, turning over more than $4 million per year. It is also the heart of the community, the only local, independent grocer, sourcing not only produce from local farms but also from over 50 gardeners who produce chemical-free food.
In 2025, the co-op will be holding a year-long celebration, exploring co-operatives’ impact on their community and wider society, reflecting on achievements, and creating solid actions to strengthen the co-operative movement.
Key events to look out for include:
- Launch event – Sunday, 2 February: A special celebration marking the Year of Cooperatives and the unveiling of the co-op’s beautiful new mural. Join us for a garden party that will bring together community, food, and connection, coordinated by co-op members and local artists Lexie Abel and Libby Harward of Munimba-ja Art Centre, Maleny.
- International Coop Day – Saturday, 5 July: “Love Letters to Your Co-op” – a chance to express appreciation for the co-op movement.
- The co-op unconference, August – A dynamic mini-symposium gathering co-op elders, specialists and newcomers to share insights, explore co-op creation and discuss future ideas.
- Outreach programs: Engaging with schools and organisations to explore the benefits of co-ops and challenge traditional perceptions.
- Partnerships: Collaborating with local organisations to highlight the Year of Cooperatives, including the Maleny Film Festival, Hinterland Book Festival, local Chambers of Commerce and Maleny Music Festival.
- Online discussions: A series of conversations exploring the Seven International Cooperative Principles, coordinated nationally by Maple Street Co-op.
- Founders and early leaders interview sessions: Engaging interviews with our founders and early leaders, followed by a member gathering.
- After hours for members: A special introduction to the co-op for new owner-members, facilitated by experienced co-operators.
