Annual Maleny Motorcyle Swap meet roars back in 2022

Sunshine Coast Historical Motorcycle Club Secretary Keith Canning and his wife Colleen, pictured just before one of the Club’s rides, are keen for the swap meet.

The Sunshine Coast branch of the Historical Motorcycle Club will hold their 28th annual Maleny Swap Meet at the Maleny Showgrounds on March 12.  

The club has been holding this event every year since 1994, except last year which was cancelled due to Covid. 

“A Swap Meet is where people of similar interests gather, set up small stalls and sell all their excess parts and anything relating to their interests,” said Secretary Keith Canning.  “Because ours is a Motorcycle Swap, then anything offered must be motorcycle-related.  That ranges from parts, complete motorcycles, clothing, riding gear, tools and tyres.  The list goes on.”

Keith said motorcycle enthusiasts  came from all over Queensland and interstate to buy and sell.  “These visitors stay in the area, close to the showgrounds so they can get an early start on the bargains or get a prize position to sell their goods. Businesses around Maleny and the wider Sunshine Coast benefit as these people all take time to eat, sleep and enjoy the area while they are here.”

Each year at the Swap the club includes a Bike Show.  “This show is held in honour of a younger past member, who we lost some years ago,” said Keith.  The judging of the show is by “People’s Choice”.  Those who walk through the pavilion are asked to vote for their favourite bike.  “There is no fairer way,” said Keith.  “So, if you attend the Swap, make sure you take in the show and vote.” 

The Historical Motorcycle Club encourages the restoration and riding of older motorcycles.  “Many people will often see members out on the road enjoying a ride.  We very often get feedback from the public saying that they enjoy seeing these bikes from yesteryear out and about as it brings memories flooding back.”

The Maleny Swap is the  major fundraising event.  Not only does it fund the running of our club but money raised supports charities including the Queensland Cancer Council, Prostate Cancer and Bloomhill Cancer Care to name a few. The club takes this role very seriously and enjoys seeing our fundraising put to good use.”

Keith said there will be plenty of food available. “The Maleny Lions have catered for our Swap for many years.  It’s an important fundraiser for them and we are glad to support their efforts.”  

People can camp on the Friday night and be ready for the Swap on Saturday morning at no charge.

“We would love to see everyone at the Maleny Swap and maybe they may like to join our club and share the love of old motorcycles.  A club-eligible motorcycle has to be more than 30 years old.  Make sure you come and see us in the pavilion, we would love to hear from you.”

The  Swap is to be held at Maleny Showgrounds Saturday March 12 from 6am.  Entry is $10. Stalls $10. Information call Murray  0404 810 413.