Hot rods and homegrown on show
Two big events will roll and ride into Caloundra and Maleny over the last weekend in May.
Bluey's Photography
Around 650 classic and custom cars are expected to roll into Caloundra for the Downunder Beachfest, while the Maleny Show returns with its beloved blend of agricultural charm, family fun, and a heartwarming community wedding.
Sunshine Coast Resilient Portfolio Councillor Terry Landsberg said that event options from the coast to hinterland would bring our community together, attract thousands of visitors and highlight the unique offerings of Caloundra and Maleny.
“These two events would showcase the vibrant spirit and diverse culture of our region,” Cr Landsberg said.
“From the excitement of the Maleny Show to the nostalgia Downunder Beachfest brings, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
“For Caloundra and surrounding areas, May 30 is scheduled as the official Show Day and families are expected to flock to The Maleny Show for side show alley and showbags, while others can enjoy yesteryear classic cars and music at the Beachfest events.”
The Maleny Show
When: May 30-31, 8am-8pm
Where: Maleny Showgrounds, 13 Maleny-Stanley River Road. Maleny QLD 4552
Two grey horses standing nose to nose with ribbons around their necks
A man holding a ball, lying on the grass in between two dogs with his arm around one of the dogs
A lady (a show steward) peering over flowers to judge them - white and pink colour flowers are in thre or four green bottles on the table
Beautifully decorated cupcakes in gold foil cup cake patties.
A young lady in a blue shire and jeans standing next to beige and white pony
5 people (kids and adults) huddled over a huge table of lego pieces.
2 men in competition, with chainsaws chopping parts of a log on a special metal stand.
Chopping wood - a lady standing on a wood log bending over it with her axe chopping into the log.
A brown dog in mid flight as it attempt to jump over a positioned fence or gate in competition mode.
A lady dressed in the full helmet, jacket and jodhpurs on her horse and leaning forward as they horse has just jumped over a competition barricade.
Maleny Show Society President Lynda Burges said once through the gate, there was an abundance of free entertainment for all ages, showcasing the unique charm of an Agricultural Show and much more.
“We love the show, and we love bringing it to you, and this year we are celebrating LOVE in a big way,” Ms Burgess said.
“We love to offer something new, and this year we’ve got two firsts - the Meat Magic Show combining practical demos of meat cutting, sausage making and cooking and, we are hosting a wedding!
“Highlights will also include the Pavilion exhibits, trade exhibits, the woodchip, Country Star Search Competition and side show alley, plus an evening program in the main ring and fireworks both nights.
“Our celebrity guest this year is professional animal behaviorist and farmer Dave Graham, a former Big Brother contestant, who will host several talks and demonstrations with his canine crew.
“Each day features horse events, dairy, beef, poultry and livestock competitions and on Saturday, May 31, the Woodchop event will display skill and strength until the last chop.
“Maleny, one of Queensland’s most sought-after wedding destinations, provides the perfect backdrop for a magical celebration.
“Weddings can be costly, but the Maleny Show Society is ready to help one lucky couple”.
Everyone is invited to attend the Wedding of the Year, with Meg and Matt tying the knot centre stage on the Entertainment Oval at 10:30 am on Saturday, May 31.
This incredible young couple won the Maleny Show Society’s Free Wedding Competition and will become the first-ever couple to get married at an Agricultural Show!
Division 5 Councillor Winston Johnston said Council was a proud supporter of the annual Maleny Show.
“This show brings together local community groups and not-for-profit organisations,” Cr Johnston said.
“They collaborate and deliver an event that supports these groups in building their capacity, attracting new members, and generating income, and educates the wider community on the importance of agriculture.
“This initiative highlights the strength of community collaboration, and the vital role agriculture plays in our lives.”
Bowden’s Own Downunder Beachfest (May 28-June 1)
The front of a 1959 Ford car - yellow in colour. Trees in the background and similar cars to the right.
An aerial view of lots of colourful classic and custom cars parked on both sides of the street - with buildings either side.
An aerial view of the street filled with people and classic and custom cars on display, with beautiful green trees lining the street on the right.
Downunder Beachfest has become an annual spectacle in Caloundra that celebrates hot rod, custom and classic motor vehicles and the rock n roll lifestyle.
There are a variety of activities from cruises, live entertainment, car displays and dinners plus a variety of traders at the displays.
There will be changed traffic conditions on some days to create the event zone. Bulcock Street and surrounding streets are affected.
Event highlights
Event highlights
When: Wednesday, May 28, 5-8pm, Street Party
Where: Bulcock Street Caloundra with music, local food and cars on display.
When: Friday, May 30, 5-8pm, Super Cruise
Where: through Caloundra CBD and Esplanade - locals and visitors flock to the heart of Caloundra, lining the streets and filling cafes, bars, and eateries as a dazzling parade of classic cars cruise from Kings Beach through the vibrant CBD.
When: Saturday May 31, 8am-2pm, Show n Shine car show
Where: Caloundra CBD and Esplanade - a sea of chrome and classic cars will line the streets of the CBD.
When: Saturday, 2pm-4pm, The Beachfest Pinup Pageant 2025
Where: Caloundra Hotel - vintage glam takes centre stage as the Beachfest Pinup Pageant lights up CBX with style, sass, and retro flair!
When: Sunday June 1, 8am-midday, Show n Shine car show
Where: Caloundra CBD and Esplanade - static classic cars line the streets in a stunning display, joining forces with the Caloundra Street Fair— the Sunshine Coast’s favourite market, featuring over 100 unique stalls of local flair and flavour.
When: Sunday, midday-6pm, After Party
Where: Caloundra Hotel
The festival supports local community organisations and raises funds for a registered charity UCE Movement - mental health and suicide awareness.
The event is supported by Council and helps deliver the Sunshine Coast Council’s Major Events Strategy which aims to bring in $86 million of economic benefit to the region through visitation and local spend.
Where to find out what’s on
Anytime you are looking for what’s on around the Sunshine Coast, visit events.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au and search by location or date.