The Mapleton Country Market enjoyed one of its busiest days in recent memory this weekend, with perfect winter weather bringing out crowds eager to browse diverse local produce and participate in the community’s first Best Dressed Dog Parade.
Held on the fourth Saturday of the month as part of the popular Hinterland Market Trail, the market benefited from ideal conditions after a week of rain. The sun emerged to create what organisers described as “a perfect winter’s day,” drawing significantly larger crowds than usual monthly markets.
New Stallholders Add Variety
The market reached full capacity with an impressive 50 stalls, showcasing a diverse array of local producers with several new faces joining the regular line-up. A strawberry seller from Maleny made a welcome appearance, adding to the day’s fresh produce offerings. Visitors also enjoyed offerings from jam and sauce producers visiting from Stanthorpe, and a Toowoomba-based fish and accessories stall.
“The diverse stallholders’ products with a few new stallholders” stood out as a memorable highlight of the day, according to market organisers.
One stallholder praised the market’s organisation, noting “The organisers are marvellous and very helpful. Plus a larger market with free parking.”
Dog Parade Draws Mixed Results
While the inaugural Best Dressed Dog Parade attracted attention, participation was lighter than hoped, with seven dogs entering the competition. However, many more dog owners brought their pets to enjoy the morning market atmosphere.
The winners were clear crowd favourites: ‘Hawaiian Harry’ took out the big dog category sporting a cap, surf shirt and lei, whilst the little dog winner embraced rock and roll style with a costume featuring ‘Trouble’ written across the shirt.
Local businesses showed generous support for the event, with Phoebe at Pongy Pooches Dog Grooming providing grooming vouchers, and Jo Nix from Pongy Pooches contributing handmade, preservative-free dog treats, biscuits and chocolates along with bandanas. Crochet by Chloe donated a dog toy, MADCA provided two $25 Pet Barn vouchers, and The Barn on Flaxton offered free coffee for the owners plus puppaccinos for the dogs.
Despite the modest turnout, crowd reaction remained positive, and organisers indicated they will discuss with the market sub-committee whether to repeat the dog parade format for future events.
Council Promotes Sustainability
The local council made a strong presence at the market, distributing free trees to residents along with information about net zero initiatives and sustainability practices related to the 2032 Olympics. The tree giveaway proved popular with attendees, keeping council representatives busy throughout the morning.
Councillor David Law highlighted the significance of the initiative, noting that today plus seven years will mark the opening ceremony for the Paralympic Games 2032. “Council are helping the community plant 2032 native trees so that in seven years our place will be greener,” he explained, connecting the immediate community action with the long-term Olympic vision.
Community Support
The market continues to receive strong support from local representatives, with Marty Hunt MP recently providing sponsorship for a new banner and 3×3 gazebo. On Monday 18th August, the MP joined MADCA president Max Standage, market organiser Donna Klease and Paula Wright for a photo in front of the new banner, highlighting the ongoing partnership between local government and community initiatives.
Looking Ahead
The success of this weekend’s market has energised organisers for upcoming events. Plans are already underway for a children’s event in September and a pre-Christmas market scheduled for late November.
To build on this weekend’s success, organisers plan to distribute new promotional flyers to local accommodation outlets and the Information Centre to attract even more visitors to future markets.
As one visitor summed up the day: “Very enjoyable and the community came which was great.”
The Mapleton Country Market continues to serve as a vital community hub, bringing together local producers, families, and visitors for a uniquely regional experience in the heart of the Sunshine Coast hinterland.
The Mapleton Country Market is held on the fourth Saturday of every month as part of the Hinterland Market Trail. For more information, visit their Facebook page at facebook.com/mapletoncountrymarket
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