November 28, 2025
It is with deep regret and a heavy heart that we inform you that Barung Landcare has made the difficult decision not to proceed with the Maleny Wood Expo in May 2025.
This decision has not been made lightly, as we fully understand the significant social, economic, and cultural impact the Expo has on our community, and especially on those who have been attending the Expo for many years. The Expo has always been a cherished occasion, bringing together exhibitors, visitors, volunteers, and supporters in celebration of our local craft, environment, and shared values.
Unfortunately, due to our organisation facing ongoing financial challenges, combined with rising supplier costs, the impacts of unpredictable weather, stricter contractual hire agreements, and the declining availability of sponsorship and investment, these factors combined, have led the Barung Landcare Management Committee to conclude that the financial risk to the organisation is now far too great to proceed with a 2025 event.
At this time, there are no decisions about future events, but we remain open and committed to exploring all possible avenues, and will be looking at alternative ways to continue supporting our community as we navigate these challenges.
We deeply value the relationships we have built over the years with our exhibitors, sponsors, volunteers, and the broader community. We understand the disappointment and hardship this news may bring, and we are working hard to explore new ways of sustaining the spirit of the Expo and continuing the meaningful work we do together.
Barung Landcare is incredibly grateful for the years of ongoing support of Sunshine Coast Council to the Maleny Wood Expo and Sunshine Coast Wootha Prize, and we are continuing to look at ways we can continue to work together, along with our other partners. For now, the Sunshine Coast Wootha Prize will be closed to entries.
We sincerely apologise for the impact this decision may have on you all, we ask that you offer compassion and kindness to our frontline staff and contractors who deliver the Expo, as the entire team is deeply feeling this decision at the moment.
If you have any further questions, please send these to info@malenywoodexpo.com
We thank you for your understanding, patience, and continued support as we work through this difficult period.
The Barung Landcare Management Committee