What is the BWMCA?

Despite unprecedented growth in population and expansion of the geographical boundaries in recent years, there still exists in Buderim, a unique sense of community.

In late 1945 the Australian government was vigorously encouraging small towns and settlements to erect monuments in honour of those who had fought for their country. At the time, Buderim had a population of about 600 and the major industry was farming.

Long before the end of the war, there was great discussion about the nature of the Buderim monument. The stakeholders did not want a cold stone statue, nor did they feel that a dedicated park or an avenue of trees was right for Buderim.

Instead . . .in a moment of rare vision, it was resolved to keep Buderim a place that was worth fighting for . . . a place that would maintain the spirit of community, which had characterised Buderim during the war years.

They wanted to establish a living memorial.

. . . and so founded the Buderim War Memorial Community Centre.

Because the Buderim community spirit had always existed, no one saw anything special about it until, in 1995, famous Australian social researcher, Hugh Mackay, came to investigate what made Buderim tick. He had been intrigued by what he had heard of the community and the Association. He was so impressed by what he described as "such a strong sense of community" that he wrote "I urge you to support, cherish and nourish your organistion . . . if the unique quality of Buderim is to be maintained."
He added that Australians everywhere were reporting a growing sense of concern - they didn't feel safe, they'd lost their values, they didn't have a "sense of community''. He asked us never to let this happen in Buderim.

Through a network of sub groups, the BWMCA is very active in a wide variety of community event and activities, is responsible for several properties on behalf of the community as well as conducting an increasingly busy and complex community information centre.

Much has changed in Buderim in the last 60 years, yet the desire to protect the community values and lifestyle of Buderim residents has not changed. The BWMCA is as valuable to the community now, as it was in the early days.

The Association is maintained by volunteers and financed through many fund raising initiatives and investments. The BWMCA is directly responsible for many facilities and key events on Buderim.

The nurturing of a sense of community and the willingness of people to put a value on that notion is the cornerstone of the BWMCA. This uniquely Buderim characteristic is a model for all communities across Australia and it is hoped will remain an integral part of our community for generations to come.

BWMCA Inc Members

Association members are the only people who can vote at any general or annual general meeting. They cannot vote at management committee meetings, unless nominated as an affiliate delegate.

Classes of membership are: Ordinary, Junior, Family, Commercial & Life.  The Association can admit any person to Honorary Membership.