WELL, what a year 2022 was, what with Covid (the disease and its associated mandates), unprecedented floods and the massive impact on rural and urban communities. Then to top it off inflation and soaring prices on everything from housing to fuel to groceries. The main positive I can think of for 2022 (after return of freedom of movement) is it’s a reminder of the importance of community and working together. That’s where an organisation like Maleny Commerce comes in, to support and represent our local businesses and wider community.
Earlier in the year we had a win for our hospitality businesses by advocating to the Queensland Government to end the mandate that had unfairly targeted our hospitality sector. Thankfully the Queensland Government ended this divisive mandate on April 14, 2022.
It was also very rewarding to see Maleny Commerce, Montville Chamber of Commerce and our local MP Andrew Powell put together the ‘Hinterland Healing’ program for flood affected business in the Gympie region. This came in the form of accommodation, food, drink, and entertainment, all donated by Blackall Range businesses to help provide some rest and recuperation for flood-affected businesses. Again, our community demonstrated why it is rated as one of Australia’s most generous.
Congratulations also to all the Small Businesses who participated in this year’s Glassies – Small Business Awards.
Winners for Maleny were, Silver Business – VIP Wildlife, Silver Employee – Jen Bernasconi – Jen’s Woodfired Pizzas, Bronze Business – Maple Street Co-op and Bronze Employee – Jemma Mays, Goodstart Early Learning Centre.
Highlight for the latter part of the year was the Sustainable Futures Expo on October 8. Thank you to all the speakers and stall holders for a great day. Big thankyou to our sponsors Sunshine Coast Council and Maleny IGA and even bigger thank you to our event organiser Nicole Hilton for making at all happen.
‘I Love Maleny Gift Cards’ have had a great year keeping money in our community (almost $150,000 invested already), they’re great Christmas Gift idea too! Just visit www.whyleavetown.com/programs/maleny to find out more.
Last, but not least, our networking breakfasts are one of the most important things we contribute to our community. It’s a great opportunity to meet and exchange ideas in the vibrant community we’re all part of. Look forward to seeing you at one in 2023. Our next meeting is our AGM on February 14, 2023.
All the best for the festive season and hope you get a chance to rest up with family and friends and perhaps we can all look forward to a slightly less eventful 2023!
Main image: Glassies Small Business Awards winners for Maleny with Spencer Shaw and Andrew Powell