Maleny’s iconic Watson’s Garage closure a sign of the times, says owner

A comment on Facebook asked the owners to “please keep the Golden Fleece sign for the town”. 

A well known Maleny service station, Watson’s Garage announced its closure on Friday, November 12.

“It is with great sadness after over 60 years of trade Watson’s Garage, Maleny, will be closed today,” a notice on the bowser says. 

The new owners also announced the closure on Facebook saying they would like to thank the Maleny community for all of their support over the years. 

“We regret that this decision has to be made, however progress has forced our hand,” they said, in possible reference to the new Mobil service station in Bunya Street. 

“To all our suppliers and the community once again, we are sorry but we thank you. 

“Over many years of service and contribution we also would like to thank the staff.

“We look forward to sharing new and exciting ventures in this location.”

Watson’s Garage, Maleny was listed for lease earlier this year, closed its doors on Friday, November 12.

Savills Sunshine Coast had the property listed for rent as an “iconic, character-filled” service station.

A comment on Facebook asked the owners to “please keep the Golden Fleece sign for the town”. 

Another lamented the loss of independent businesses from town: “Gone are the days of small independent suppliers: Nagy’s, The Farmers’ Coop, The Farm Barn, and now Watson’s”.

The Watson family had sold the service station some years ago. A sign on the front of the building reads “Est 1964”, which would make the business 57 years old.