Co-op News
From "Maple Street Co-op News", Oct/Nov 2007

New Directors Sought for the Co-op.
By Alan Harrington, Co-op General Manager

The Co-op and the Club are now operating pretty well, although staff are continuously looking at ways of improving our systems. One aspect of the Co-ops' activities that is very pleasing is that of membership. As of the end of September, the Co-op and the Club's active membership stands at 1,070. As 99.9 per cent of this membership comprises people who live in our community, I think this is phenomenal!

Despite this high membership, we still seem to have difficulty in attracting members to become Directors. With the AGM coming up in November, I would urge those who may like to become involved to do so.

The Co-op and the Club are now $2.4-million per annum businesses, employing approximately 30 people. If you are interested in becoming a Director, please come in and talk to myself or one of the existing Directors. The more expertise and diversity we can get at the Board level, the better for all.

This year there will be a small departure from what normally happens in the October/November newsletter. Usually we publish the end of year audited accounts and all the other information that goes with an AGM. At this point in time, these matters have not been finalised and will be made available to members as soon as they come to hand. They will be produced as a separate document to the newsletter.

From a personal point of view, it's pleasing to see the Boards of the Maleny Credit Union, the Maple Street Co-operative and The UpFront Club taking stands on some of the critical issues that will shape our community's future for generations to come. I refer specifically to the Maleny Community Precinct, and trust that the community achieves an outcome that is sustainable, viable and meets the reasonable expectations of those who live here.

On a sad note, on behalf of the Board, staff and members of the co-ops, I would like to pass on condolences to Jill Jordan and Ann Jupp on the recent passing of their father, Jack. I understand a ceremony will be held at Frog's Hollow at a date to be announced.

Fundraiser for local icon
When you swim at glorious Gardeners Falls this summer, spare a thought for the man pictured above. Harry Whitehouse donated the land at Gardeners Falls for the whole community to enjoy, for generations to come.

A much-loved Maleny elder, Harry has been a part of the Maleny co-op community for many years, and is the Licencee (and a loyal supporter), of The UpFront Club - we're told he may be the oldest Licencee in Australia.
Now Harry needs a helping hand. A fundraiser for Harry has been scheduled for the evening of Thursday 25 October at The UpFront Club.

There will be an auction of artworks donated by local artists, and a raffle with a variety of prizes. There will also be live music and a lot of fun to be had. Everyone is invited to come along and show some support for one of our town's most respected community members.

If you would like to donate to either the auction or the raffle, or help out in any way, please let the Club know, or call Sarah Castaldi on 5494 3958.

[From "Maple Street Co-op News", October/November 2007; published by The Maple Street Co-operative Society Ltd, 37 Maple Street, Maleny, Qld 4552, Australia, tel (07) 5494 2088, email maplest.co-op@serv.net.au, website http://www.maplestreetco-op.com.au]