New Mapleton Country Market takes shape in school carpark

The Mapleton Country Market is operating now under the auspices of MADCA. Organisers, from left, Paula Wright, Ian Stannard, Donna Klease, are grateful to Rob Skelton for their bright new banner.

THE Mapleton Country Market invites locals to join them on Saturday September 23 from 8am to 12pm at the Mapleton School Carpark at 24 Flaxton Drive Mapleton with onsite parking available.

The school motto “Top of the Range” well describes its beautiful location with the early settlers and pioneering families setting themselves the task of providing schooling for their children.

In the early part of 1899 the Mapleton School Committee wrote to the Department of Public Instruction to investigate whether a school for Mapleton could be approved.

A public meeting in June 1896 had been called to elect a Building Committee for promoting the establishment of a provisional school.

The early settlers had taken matters into their own hands (after numerous correspondences with the Department) and had at their own cost built the building over a two year period and provided the furniture without any assistance from the government.

Inspector Macgroarty had a few concerns but he conducted his inspection of the newly built School building and met with the children registered (to see if the numbers were not fabricated).

The Dulong Provisional School had been built in 1895 on Phillip’s Road and the Department had regulations that new provisional schools could not be approved if there was an existing school with within four miles.

Inspector Macgroarty had to ride the track himself to see if, as the settlers had advised, it was impossible for the children to travel to Dulong on a daily basis. Thankfully he reported that he recommended approval of the school i.e. without subsidy.

The historic 1899 first building of the provisional school was also used for public gatherings and social events out of school hours, it marked the beginning of what is now a pleasant rural and park like environment for students and supports our local community.

The markets are proudly supported by the Mapleton and District Community Association (MADCA) a not-for-profit organisation, comprised of local citizens that works with residents, community groups and local government to preserve its heritage and outstanding natural environment, and promote our beautiful hinterland village and surrounding districts.

MADCA’s Waffle Stall

MADCA also host a Waffle Stall, with delicious homemade waffles, including a gluten-free option. MADCA president, Max Standage, has fostered the Waffle project, whereby profits from the MADCA waffle stall will fund a small grant program for local community projects.