Motorcycle Club gears up for huge annual Swap Meet
A taste of what will be on display at the Swap Meet ... a 1916 Triumph and a 1912 Rudge.
The Sunshine Coast branch of the Historical Motorcycle Club will hold their annual Swap Meet at the Maleny Showgrounds on March 11.
The club has been holding this event every year since 1994. That makes this the 29th Maleny Swap.
“We were able to hold a very successful Swap again last year which was fantastic because with COVID we had to miss the previous year,” said Secretary Keith Canning.
“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. 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.”
Motorcycle enthusiasts come from all over Queensland and interstate to buy and sell. Visitors stay 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,” said Keith.
Each year at the Swap the club includes a Show of members’ bikes.
“This is held in honour of a younger past member, who we lost some years ago. The judging of the show is by people’s choice.
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 our major fund raising event. Not only does it fund the running of our club, but monies raised supports charities which include the Queensland Cancer Council, Prostate Cancer and Bloomhill to name a few. The club takes this role very seriously and enjoys seeing our fundraising put to good use.”
Keith said there would 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.”
“If you want to stay over on the Friday night and be ready for the Swap on Saturday morning you can. There is no charge for that.
“We would love to see people there 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.”
The venue for the Swap is the Maleny Showgrounds. Gates open Saturday March 11 at 6am. Cost is $10. Stalls cost $10. For more information call Phil on 0418 476 370.