Maleny’s new visitor centre opens

NEXT week, after much anticipation, the Maleny Visitor Information Centre will relocate to the Maleny Community Centre building.

The army of 58 volunteers have worked hard to ensure the move runs smoothly, with the information centre set to start operation from the new base on February 18.

Information Centre president Bryan Hughes said the new store was the start of a more professional image.

"We are becoming a more professional operation," Mr Hughes said.

"I think it will boost Maleny's profile, it will certainly present a much more professional image to visitors and lift the perception of value from our tourism operators. It took a courageous decision to take out a lease and operate as a professional business."

The new store will feature Maleny branded merchandise, a double video presentation, specialised Maleny postcards, gift cards and greeting cards and local artwork.

"We're featuring local Maleny artists there, John Morrison, Heather Gall, and Carolyn Sheather," Mr Hughes said. "But our core business remains visitor information."

Maleny Community Centre vice president David Crewe said they had planned the official opening of the Centre for March 22.

"There is no access for the public to the hall yet until the first event which is on February 15," Mr Crewe said.

"We are planning a whole weekend of events for the official opening."

The official opening is to feature a performance by the Maleny Singers and Maleny Players.