Maleny is the mountain resort where community flourishes

It’s not often that one can boast of working in paradise, but that’s the feeling Christina and Peter Koplick have every day as resort managers of Living Gems Maleny.

They’ve been managers for almost seven years and are still enjoying every moment. Peter worked at Ruby by Living Gems and Christina worked in the education and childcare industries before taking on the resort management role.

“Maleny is a special place,” said Christina. “It’s beautiful both summer and winter because it’s surrounded by lush rainforests making it lovely and cool in summer when the coast is too hot and humid.

“We originally came from the Beaudesert area which can be very hot in summer and cold in winter, so Maleny temperatures are perfect for us all year round.”

In fact, before being offered the role of resort managers at Living Gems Maleny, Christina and Peter spent a great deal of time in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland town.

“We’ve always loved Maleny, it was the place we would go to relax and when the opportunity came up, we jumped at it,” said Christina.

“There are a lot of things which happen behind the scenes to make sure our community is happy and cared for. In return, we enjoy spending time with such interesting people.”

The resort is just a short stroll away from the centre of Maleny itself.

“There are plenty of great cafes and, my favourite, bookstores where you can sit and read while enjoying a coffee,” said Christina.

There is such great pride in the Living Gems Maleny community.

Everyone loves their plants and grows beautiful flowers, and the homeowners are very much into the craft and workshop activities, including quilting, crocheting blankets and even making Christmas balls to give as gifts.

“What makes Living Gems Maleny so lovely is the willingness of everyone to help one another,” said Christina.

“If someone doesn’t know how to do something, then there is always someone to assist. We also have a very active volunteer team which really add to the strong community spirit.

“There is an active ladies lunch group who go out together once a month and a social committee that arranges regular get togethers including a recent St Patrick’s Day event.”