New sign prompts mixed response
A NEW sign welcoming motorists to Maleny has been met with some criticism, with questions raised about the lack of community consultation. While some applauded the upgrade, others have voiced concerns, including comments that the $104,000 sign is a ‘bland misrepresentation’ of the town. Community feedback earlier this year prompted Sunshine Coast Council to include acknowledgement of the traditional custodians; however, the sign on Landsborough-Maleny road which incorporates a silhouette of the Glass House Mountains, timber pillars and locally sourced basalt stone has prompted mixed reactions from the Maleny community.
Maleny Chamber of Commerce President, Spencer Shaw said the concept for an upgraded town sign had originally been proposed by the Chamber approximately 3-4 years ago; however, he was disappointed with the lack of robust engagement with local community groups and artists in the creation and delivery of the project. “This was a process the Chamber initiated. I’m disappointed, however, the input and consultation didn’t continue past the development phase,” he said. Division 5 Councillor, Winston Johnston said a lot of thought had gone into the custom design for the sign to ensure it reflected features of the town. “The community asked for inclusion of Jinibara Country, which was added,” he said.