Co-operatives Connect – Brisbane 9 & 10 August 2023
#BetterTogether
We’re excited to share the success of Co-operatives Connect, a recent event that took place in Brisbane on the 9th and 10th of August 2023. With the fantastic support of Principal Sponsors, Killarney Co-op, and Associate Sponsors, Maple Street Co-op & Union Co-operative Society, this gathering aimed to celebrate the co-operative ethos and foster connections within the cooperative sector in Queensland and Northern NSW.
Campfire Co-op final interactive workshop sharing our learnings and co-op improvements
Co-operative Principles on Show
The event commenced with a Co-op Governance Workshop on August 10th, followed by Brisbane Co-op Drinks later in the evening. The two-day event culminated in the Co-operatives Connect – Brisbane mini-conference on August 11th.
The Co-op Governance Graduates. Anthony Esposito presents the origin story of the Union Co-operative Society at Co-op Drinks
The Community Cooperative Council (CCC) granted seven bursaries for free governance training to The Co-op Federation. From 1990 to 2002, CCC played a pivotal role in coordinating South-East QLD co-ops, nurturing cooperative development, and significantly impacting various social change initiatives. We are very grateful for this contribution, which will improve the governance and impact of many local co-operatives.
Brisbane Co-op Drinks attracted a lively crowd with two local speakers, Anthony Esposito from Union Co-operative Society and Amy Jackson from Sage Room Co-op who shared their co-ops’ history, journey and purpose.
The main event, Co-operatives Connect – Brisbane, saw nearly 50 participants, including politicians, business leaders and the manager of co-operative registration services in Queensland.
Left: Molly Kendall and Kerryn Newton. Centre: Session One panel. Right: Richard Warner and spontaneous speaker Michael from Nundah Community Enterprises Co-op
Co-op Contributions
Several of our Federation member co-ops played key roles in ensuring the event’s success. Nundah Co-op managed the event venue and provided eco-friendly catering, reflecting their commitment to sustainability. Reverse Garbage Queensland Co-op facilitated the “Shout Your Co-op” workshop key-ring making; and also helped The Federation compile zero-waste conference goodie bags. Campfire Co-op and Sage Room Co-op (two co-ops of expert collaborative facilitators) led essential workshops at this conference, enhancing the event’s value.
Additionally, the conference featured workshops on updating co-op constitutions (rules) and leveraging co-operative advantages in marketing. Sector meetings grouped co-ops engaged in similar activities, enabling them to address challenges and explore collaborative opportunities.
The Future Ahead
The success of Co-operatives Connect – Brisbane has ignited discussions about establishing these co-operative, place-based events more regularly. The Co-op Federation is sure that the unity and shared commitment to positive change amongst the attendees will pave the way for future editions of this gathering.
“Rules Reboot” workshop. Campfire Co-op Session Outcomes Co-op keyring making with Reverse Garbage Qld Co-op
In conclusion, our gratitude goes out to all sponsors, participants, and cooperatives that contributed to the success of Co-operatives Connect – Brisbane. Your collective spirit and dedication embody the essence of the co-operative movement. We anticipate the positive impact of this event resonating throughout the co-operative sector and beyond!