A fresh new look underway for Bloomhill Maleny

From left to right: Store Manager, Tina Magann, Deb Petersen retail assistant, General Manager Marvet Quirke, volunteer Karen Syrmis, volunteer Ivonne Richards, and volunteer Sarah McAusland. Photo courtesy of Marsha Fotografie.

Bloomhill Cancer Care’s much-loved Maleny Op Shop will soon be taking a short pause, not as a goodbye, but as an exciting step forward.

From early March, the Maleny store will temporarily close its doors for renovations aimed at enhancing the space and making it easier for customers to shop, donate and connect. The updates will allow Bloomhill to better utilise the store’s retail footprint and ultimately generate more support for local people living with cancer.

For almost 30 years, Bloomhill Cancer Care has quietly supported thousands of individuals and families across the Sunshine Coast and Hinterland through cancer diagnosis, treatment and recovery. From nursing care, to oncology massage, allied health services, and lymphoedema therapies to transport services and wellness programs, Bloomhill provides practical, emotional and physical support when it’s needed most.

What many people don’t realise is that Bloomhill receives no ongoing government funding to deliver these services.

“Instead, our Op Shops operate as a social enterprise, where every donated item sold on the shop floor helps fund cancer care for someone in our own community,” said General Manager, Mervat Quirke.

“Quite simply, your pre-loved clothing, books, furniture and homewares become transport to treatment, allied health support, wellness programs, nursing care, or a safe space for someone navigating one of life’s toughest journeys,” she said.

“Behind the racks and registers is also a team of passionate local volunteers who generously give their time to keep the store running. Across Bloomhill, volunteers contribute between 5,000–6,000 hours every month, helping us remain both sustainable and deeply connected to the communities we serve.”

During the renovation period, Bloomhill encourages the local community to continue supporting cancer care by donating quality items to nearby Bloomhill Op Shops or visiting one of their other store locations.

“Because when you choose to donate or shop with Bloomhill, you’re not just clearing out a cupboard, you’re helping someone in your community access vital support through cancer. We look forward to welcoming Maleny locals back into a refreshed and revitalised store soon.”