Vale Ivan ‘Hank’ Hankinson; Maleny bids farewell to a community stalwart
UNDER a bushland setting at Witta Cemetery on September 4, family, friends and community members gathered to farewell Ivan Francis Hankinson, known simply as “Hank” – a man whose life was woven into the fabric of Maleny.
A guard of honour was arranged by the Maleny Show Society, where Hank had served as president for nearly three decades, reflecting the depth of respect held for him across the hinterland.
Born in Maleny on August 20, 1945, Hank lived 80 years, missing membership of the so-called “Over Bloody Eighties Club” by just seven hours. The youngest child of Ted and Phyllis Hankinson, with siblings Adelle and Bill, Ivan grew up on the family dairy farm, Ocean View. Though farming was not his chosen path, the discipline of early mornings, hard work, and respect for animals shaped his values.
Leaving school after junior year, he worked at the Maleny Butter Factory before a stint ring-barking in Queensland and New South Wales. Returning home, he drove trucks until called up for National Service, serving proudly in Vietnam with the 104 Signal Squadron. Known as Corporal Hankinson, he never forgot his Army badge number 1731447, and honoured it at every Anzac Day.
Following his discharge, Hank explored several careers. He co-founded the Maleny Cement Plant before moving on to become head groundsman and club captain at Beerwah Golf Club. His sporting life was rich: representing Queensland in badminton, playing A-grade cricket as a fast bowler, and notching a coveted hole-in-one at Beerwah. But trucks called him back, and he worked as an owner-driver until retirement at 68.
Hank’s life flourished when he met Kaye at the Nambour Civic Centre while playing badminton. They married in January 1973, sharing 52 years together and raising two children, Craig and Lisa. His family expanded to include daughter-in-law Amy, son-in-law Ritchie, and four grandchildren Lachlan, Isaac, Lexi and Gigi who gave him a new lease on life. “Pa” was known for his humour, warmth, and patient encouragement, even when bewildered by modern technology.
A man of tradition, Hank rose at 4.30am daily, beginning with a black tea and sugar. He was known for his dry wit, integrity in business – where a handshake sealed a deal – and his unshakeable commitment to service.
For 35 years, family camping trips to Dicky Beach created memories that remain treasured. Hank devoted much of his life to community service. He was a Maleny State School P&C committee member and President, a life member of Apex, and a long-time marshal for Anzac Day parades.
But it was his 50 years with the Maleny Show Society, including 29 as president, that cemented his legacy. He also served as president of the Near North Coast Show Society Sub-Chamber, advocating for local shows across the region.
His dedication was recognised with numerous honours, including a Paul Harris Fellowship from Rotary, the Showmen’s Guild Appreciation Award, and a Queensland Chamber of Agricultural Societies Service Award. In 2024, the Maleny Show Society named the hill at the grounds in his honour, a lasting tribute to his vision.
Maleny Show Society president, Lynda Burgess, said: “Ivan was the glue that held our society together for almost 30 years. His dedication and hard work still shape the showgrounds today.” Secretary Lois White added: “He was fair, generous, and the ultimate gentleman. He put community first and inspired us all.”
As his son Craig reflected in his eulogy: “Dad was always first to arrive and last to leave. He packed so much into every day, with purpose, humour and heart.” For Maleny, Hank leaves behind more than memories. He leaves a legacy of service, sport, family and community spirit.
