Conference Highlights

Co-operatives Connect – Mid North Coast 2024

On Friday, 7 June 2024, The Co-op Federation hosted an inspiring gathering of co-op leaders and enthusiasts at the Slim Dusty Centre in Kempsey for Co-operatives Connect – Mid North Coast. This conference provided an important platform for exploring local co-op resilience and potential.

Morning Sessions

The day began with insightful discussions from legendary co-op leaders on “Co-operative Resilience – Charting a Course in a Changing World.” Keynote speakers included Michael Jeffery, Chair of Norco Co-op, Julaine Stephenson from The Co-operative Life, and Nick de Groot, CEO of Hastings Co-operative, who shared their strategies for navigating economic challenges and achieving sustainability.

Mid-Morning Panel

Dianne Wall, Acting CEO of Regional Development Australia Mid North Coast, along with Michael Kemp MP and Kerry Grace, delved into the successes, challenges, and regional opportunities within Australia’s co-operative economy. They emphasised the pivotal role of co-operatives in building community strength and local economic growth, particularly within the Mid North Coast region.

Afternoon Highlights: This conference hosted the historic meeting of two Indigenous publishing co-operatives. Muurrbay Indigenous Language and Culture Co-operative and Running Water Community Press Co-operative. Two members of Running Water had travelled all the way from Alice Springs, NT, to attend!

Tisha Carter (left) and Valencia Byrne (right) from Running Water Community Press Co-op visit the famous gym in Redfern and the Harbour Bridge on the Co-op road trip to the Mid North Coast!

The other conference attendees joined a collaborative discussion hosted by Peter Tregilgas from Mercury Co-op. They welcomed co-operative stories and discussions on the 6th Principle of Cooperation among Co-operatives, featuring speakers such as Neil Farquhar (Mullumbimby Rural Co-operative), Liz Ellis (Kentucky NSW Co-operative), and Wayne Skinner (Goolawah Landsharing Co-operative).

Afternoon Sessions

Following a break, attendees chose between sessions focused on marketing co-operative advantages hosted by Molly Kendall from The Co-op Federation or a Q&A session checking your co-op constitution, led by Sam Byrne. The day concluded with a plenary session summarising key insights and takeaways from the conference.

Governance Session

Ahead of the main event, participants benefited from the Co-operative Board Governance Training held on 6 June in Wauchope, which provided essential preparatory sessions and ensured a thorough understanding of the latest governance practices.

We love having co-operative members cater all our events. Here’s Molly picking up lunch from the deli manager Jess at Hastings Co-operative!

Co-operative Celebrations

We gathered with conference delegates for a celebratory evening of drinks and nibbles, held as a companion event to the conference. The Co-op Federation welcomed our delegates, VIP supporters, and Hastings Co-operative members. Hosted by Wauchope Creative Hub, the event also welcomed their loyal customers. Guests enjoyed cooperative retail therapy, enhancing their conference experience.

It was a special occasion celebrating the third anniversary of Wauchope Creative Hub, proudly supported by The Co-op Federation since its inception. Congratulations to Wauchope Creative Hub for three years of supporting local artists with 100% commission and promoting local art in our community!

Co-operatives Connect – Mid North Coast 2024 proved to be a resounding success, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of co-operatives in Australia. With a strong emphasis on resilience and community impact, the conference underscored the growing importance of co-operative models in today’s business landscape.

Join Us Next Time

Co-operatives Connect- Mid North Coast offered valuable insights and networking opportunities for those interested in exploring the co-operative business model or seeking to network within this dynamic sector. As co-operatives continue gaining momentum nationwide, we look forward to bringing our members together in Sydney to celebrate the International Year of Co-operatives in 2025. More info to come soon!

Thank you!

The Co-op Federation sincerely thanks the conference principal sponsor, Hastings Co-operative and Associate Sponsors. Coffs Harbour Fishermen’s Co-op and Regional Development Australia – Mid North Coast, for their generous support, this event could be affordable for all participants.

Stay informed about upcoming events and join us in driving positive change across Australia’s economic landscape with The Co-op Federation!