Norco Co-operative wins multiple awards at the 2024 Northern Rivers Business Awards for its commitment to sustainability, community impact, and business excellence.
Norco Co-operative, Australia’s largest and oldest dairy co-operative, has been honoured with multiple awards at the 2024 Northern Rivers Business Awards, held in recognition of its significant contributions to the economic growth and wellbeing of the Northern Rivers region. Based in Byron Bay, New South Wales (NSW), Norco is a 100% farmer-owned co-operative, with over 281 active members and a long-standing history dating back to 1895.
Norco’s achievements were celebrated with the Excellence in Large Business Award for the third consecutive year, and for the first time, the prestigious Business of the Year Award. This award was largely seen as a testament to the co-operative’s continued commitment to its farmer members, employees, and the wider local community. The recognition highlights Norco’s pivotal role in regional growth, job creation, and its dedication to sustainable business practices.
A Commitment to Sustainability and Community
In addition to the Business of the Year Award, Norco was also awarded Excellence in Sustainability for its efforts to minimize the environmental impact of its operations. Antene Seah, Norco’s Sustainability Manager, expressed her pride in the recognition, stating, “At Norco, we are committed to becoming one of the most sustainable dairy manufacturers in Australia, from our supply chain operations to the production and processing of our milk and dairy products.”
The sustainability initiatives, ranging from environmental impact reduction to the promotion of sustainable dairy farming practices, are part of the co-operative’s broader strategy to ensure its operations contribute positively to the community and the environment.
Outstanding Leadership and Initiatives
Norco’s CEO, Michael Hampson, was also honoured with the Outstanding Business Leader Award for his inspirational leadership. Under his guidance, Norco has rolled out initiatives supporting both farmers and employees, such as the National Farmer Wellbeing Report to address mental health challenges in rural communities.
Hampson’s leadership has been instrumental in securing the highest farm gate milk price in New South Wales and Queensland, maintaining support for Norco’s farmers through initiatives like the Norco cow purchasing program, which helps rebuild herds after floods and addresses industry-wide supply issues.
About Norco
Norco Co-operative was founded in 1895 in Byron Bay, New South Wales. Today, it remains 100% farmer-owned, with 281 active members across 190 dairy farms in Northern NSW and South-East Queensland. With an annual milk production of 219 million litres, Norco continues to serve as a leader in the Australian dairy industry, committed to delivering quality dairy products while supporting its members and the regional economy.
As a pioneer in the Australian dairy industry, Norco’s latest accolades reinforce its position as a key player not only in the market but also as a pillar of sustainable and community-focused practices.
