The Range Hardware & Garden Centre in Maleny has cemented its reputation as one of Queensland’s leading independent retailers, after securing a major accolade at the 2025 Mitre 10 Queensland Awards of Excellence.
The family-run store, led by John, Max and Vickie, was named Village Winner – Garden Centre of the Year, a title regarded as the gold standard in garden retailing across the Mitre 10 and Home Hardware network.
Judged on product range, floor layout, customer engagement and overall shopping experience, the award recognises the store that best embodies excellence in modern garden centre operations. With nominees drawn from high-performing outlets across the state, the Maleny team faced stiff competition before emerging as the clear standout.
For John, the win is a testament to decades of commitment. The garden centre has been part of the Maleny community for 30 years, steadily cultivating a loyal following. Much of the store’s character comes from Vickie, who has worked there for 21 years and brings what John proudly describes as an “unmatched passion for gardening”.
That expertise has not gone unnoticed as the shop has previously featured on Gardening Australia and regularly attracts returning customers from as far afield as Toowoomba, Redcliffe, Brisbane and Ipswich.
The team believes the award reflects not only the breadth of its product offering but also the warm, knowledgeable service that keeps customers coming back. They are encouraging locals and visitors alike to stop in and explore the full range as the Christmas season approaches.
John says a gift voucher from the store makes an ideal festive present.
“Spoil your loved ones this Christmas with a gift voucher,” he said. “It’s perfect for them to explore the shop and pick exactly what they want.”