A Moment With ‘The Old Dairy Maleny’
ABIA discovers the many delights of this popular Sunshine Coast Hinterland wedding ceremony and reception venue.
Image Tara Lee Photography
‘MasterChef Australia’ likely chose the location for its spectacular scenery, but it’s the warm welcome that draws engaged couples to The Old Dairy Maleny for wedding ceremonies and receptions.
“We treat every couple as though they are our extended family,” says Keighley Coates, the venue manager and event co-ordinator. “Even pets are welcome.”
Keighley took ABIA on a tour of the beautifully-manicured grounds, to point out the onsite accommodation and flexibility that add to this wedding venue’s host of attractions.
Photo by White Leaf Films
Tell us about your property and wedding services?
Looking out across the Sunshine Coast’s stunning Glass House Mountains, our breathtaking hinterland property is positioned on the ridge top, capturing views of glorious, glowing sunsets, rolling green hills and lush rainforests.
Those hosting weddings and events with us get exclusive use of all 90 acres of our well-manicured grounds to enjoy and explore.
How long have you been hosting weddings? And how many have you hosted?
The first wedding we held was of a close family member, nearly 10 years ago, and we’ve hosted many more since.
Image Fennel And Fern
What styles of weddings can you accommodate? And for what event sizes?
We are a DIY venue, so our couples either get creative or hire a local wedding stylist. We have the grounds to allow for a festival-style wedding, so food trucks and mobile bars are permitted, and our grand barn comfortably seats up to 90 guests.
What packages do you offer? What’s included?
We recently launched some new packages — including One Day Event, Ceremony-Only and Elopement packages — but our most popular is the Two Night package. It includes exclusive use of our property and all facilities, for the ceremony, reception and photography, and two nights of accommodation in our onsite two- and three-bedroom cottages.
Image Estella Photo
What spaces do you offer for wedding ceremonies and receptions?
Many choose to hold their ceremony at our Lookout area, and their reception inside our well-fitted Barn, but exclusive use of the property allows couples the freedom to create a unique experience.
How far in advance should couples book?
We recommend booking 18 months in advance, as certain months book out fast.
What advice do you have for couples looking for a wedding venue?
Consider your budget and guest list, then research local vendors to get the right fit. Also, look at the wet-weather option, and don’t be afraid to ask questions!
Image Janneke Storm
What on-site accommodation do you have available for couples and their guests?
We offer the Rocking Horse, a luxuriously appointed two-bedroom cottage — complete with loft bedroom, spectacular views, stone-walled fireplace, spa bath and wine cellar — for couples to use after the wedding.
We also have the original farm cottage, which is perfect for extra guests, and can accommodate up to eight with two double beds, one twin room and one bunk bed.
Have you hosted any notable, or celebrity, events?
In 2019 ‘MasterChef Australia’ filmed their immunity challenge at The Old Dairy Maleny. This was an exciting opportunity for us to showcase both our stunning location and the local produce of the region.
Image Ryan Hayward Photography
What photographic opportunities does the property offer?
With 90 acres of rolling hills the photographic opportunities here are limitless, but some of our favourite shots are taken walking along the grass with the golden sunset behind, by the maple trees, and in our unique piece of rainforest.
What makes your property stand out as a wedding venue?
Our two-night stay allows guests the time for a wedding rehearsal and to unwind before their wedding day. Plus, we’re ‘pet-friendly’, so couples can include their pets in the wedding celebrations.
How would you describe the couples that you connect with the most?
We connect with all our couples — we are known for treating our guests like members of our extended family.
Image So Luna
Read The Old Dairy Maleny ABIA Wedding Reviews
Visit The Old Dairy Maleny website
Email The Old Dairy Maleny
