About​

Built in 1989 & Restored in 2023

Once in poor condition, Duckbill Cottage has been lovingly restored using reclaimed and recycled materials to live the ethos of treading lightly in our beautiful environment.

Duckbills Cottage was originally built in 1989 as a Hardiplank kit home reminiscent of those found in Queensland mining towns. It served as home for various Maleny characters over the years – including a bush tucker wildlife rehab legend, local musos and various characters well known about the town and its watering holes. Over the last decade the property fell into disrepair, until 2023 when we took on the challenge to unlock Duckbill’s potential.

With limited budget and big plans we stripped the house bare, reorganised its layout and put it back together. Various doors were found, a kitchen was salvaged, and a floor was resurrected from across South East Queensland to throw into the mix. With guidance from local experts, YouTube and with professionals brought in where necessary, the new Duckbills was reborn.

Like the its namesake the platypus, Duckbills has found its habitat along the headwaters of the Obi Obi – and we trust it will feel like yours during your stay.

Sally & Leif

Prime Location

Directly across the creek from Maleny Showgrounds, close to the skateboard ramp and local swimming hole. Enjoy live music at Maleny Lane on Fridays, Sunday markets, and events at the showgrounds. Adjacent to Brouhaha Brewery, perfect for a weekend getaway.

Nature Highlights

Watch for platypus in the Obi Obi Creek from the deck. Enjoy the spectacular fruit bat migrations at sunset and sunrise. Spot a variety of bird species, including the eastern whipbird, black cockatoo, tawny frogmouth, and many more.

Nearby Attractions

Scenic walks and trails, starting right from the driveway.
Local markets, Maleny Botanical Gardens & Bird World.
Guided Platypus Whispers tours for a unique wildlife experience.