Classic bikes, rare finds, and a great cause as Swap Meet returns for 31st year

Sunshine Coast Historical Motorcycle Club of Queensland Secretary Keith Canning, left, presents last year’s Bike Show winner with his Trophy.

Motorcycle enthusiasts will once again converge on Maleny for the 31st annual Maleny Swap Meet, hosted by the Sunshine Coast branch of the Historical Motorcycle Club of Queensland (HMCCQ). The event, set for Saturday 15 March at the Maleny Showgrounds, is a major fundraiser for the club and local charities.

Club secretary Keith Canning said the Swap Meet has been a staple event since 1994 and remains a key fundraiser for both the club and the wider community.

“Not only does it fund the running of our club, but monies raised support charities including the QLD Cancer Council, Prostate Cancer and Cittamani Cancer Care, to name a few,” he said. “We take this role seriously and love seeing our fundraising put to good use.”

The Swap Meet is a hub for buying and selling all things motorcycle-related.

“A Swap Meet is where people of similar interests gather, set up stalls, and sell all their excess parts and anything related to motorcycles,” Mr Canning explained. “That ranges from parts, complete motorcycles, clothing, riding gear, tools and tyres – the list goes on.”

The event draws visitors from across Queensland and interstate, with many opting to stay in Maleny the night before to get a head start on securing bargains or setting up their stalls in prime positions. The Maleny Rotary Club will once again provide catering, serving up a variety of food options throughout the morning, alongside a coffee van for those in need of a caffeine fix.

A highlight of the event is the Bike Show, which is held in honour of a past club member. The competition is judged by People’s Choice, with visitors encouraged to vote for their favourite bike.

“The bikes on display are all owned by members of our Sunshine Coast group,” Mr Canning said. “We hold this show to remember a younger member we sadly lost some years ago. We think the fairest way to decide the winner is by letting those who walk through the pavilion cast their votes.”

HMCCQ actively encourages the restoration and riding of older motorcycles, with members regularly seen cruising the region’s scenic roads.

“We often get feedback from the public saying how much they love seeing these bikes from yesteryear out and about—it brings back great memories,” Mr Canning said.

Gates open at 6am, with entry $10 for buyers and sellers. Those wishing to camp overnight on Friday can do so at no cost.

• For more information, contact Keith Canning on 0429 000 178.