NINETY two years after the business was established as a cattle producer-owned cooperative, the Northern Cooperative Meat Co near Casino in northern NSW has competed its transition into becoming an unlisted public company.

Grower shareholders voted in favour of the change at a recent extraordinary general meeting.

The new Casino Food Company Ltd (CFC) was officially registered as an unlisted public company effective 12 May.

As explained in this earlier article, a primary reason for the change was easier access to capital, with cooperative entities finding it difficult to borrow money for expansion.

The pivotal transition marks a significant milestone in the processing business’s corporate journey, having started as a co-op in 1933, leaving a legacy as one of Australia’s most respected regional meat processors.

Cooperatives have been present in the Australian meat industry for much of the past century, but the only survivor now is the Western Australian Meat Marketing Cooperative (WAMMCo).

Others, including the South Burnett Cooperative Meat Co at Murgon in Queensland’s South Burnett region; the Byron Bay Cooperative Canning & Freezing Company (unique in the world, in that it processed both beef cattle and whales); and the short-lived Beeflands business at Coominya, have long gone. We’ll circle back in coming days to look at the role cooperative structures have historically played in the Australian red meat industry.

Board changes

The change of company structure also brings about a change to the NCMC board. After more than a decade of dedicated executive leadership, John Seccombe has stepped down as chairman, and Damien Dougherty has stepped down from his role as deputy chairman. Mr Seccombe was only the ninth chairman in the ninety-two-year history of the co-operative.

Both will remain active contributors to the business as directors on the Board, alongside Neil Short.

Frank Hannigan

Frank Hannigan who has been an adviser to the board for the past 12 months, and appointed director of the new CFC company, has been elected chairman, with Lennard Blok stepping into the role of deputy chair – a position he previously held from 2012 to 2016 when on the board.

A recently retired lawyer, Mr Hannigan is off the land and ran stud Hereford cattle at AvocaVale near Woodview. He brings a combination of leadership experience and professional qualifications, making him well-positioned to guide the company under its new corporate structure.

Mr Blok, managing director of meat wholesaler and branded beef supply chain Lee Pratt Beef has had a longstanding dedication to the company and its values, including as a service kill customer. With his depth of business acumen in both agribusiness, logistics and board experience, he brings stability and insight to the leadership team during this transition.

In a statement, the CFC board recognised the remarkable contribution of John Seccombe, who has served as a director since 2010 and as chairman since 2013. Under his stewardship, the Cooperative underwent substantial transformation -strengthening governance practices, championing innovation, and consistently advocating for the interests of members and stakeholders.

In his closing remarks, he said serving as chairman of the cooperative had been a great honour.

“The transformation we’ve achieved as a team – particularly the shift to an unlisted public company – positions us strongly for the future. I’m confident in Frank and Lennard’s leadership, and look forward to continuing to contribute as a director,” Mr Seccombe said.

With the adoption of the new CFC constitution, the board acknowledged the retirement of former directors Mrs A. Seccombe, Merrick Blok, and Robert Sinnamon.

Incoming CFC chair Frank Hannigan said the move to Casino Food Co Ltd opened new structural opportunities and reflected the evolution of the business.

“While it remains business as usual operationally, this new status positions the company to better respond to the market, embrace new opportunities, and ensure long-term sustainability. I extend heartfelt thanks to the past directors for their committed contribution and look forward to working with fellow directors as we embark on this exciting chapter together,” he said.

Simon Stahl

Simon Stahl will continue in his current role as chief executive officer under the new corporate structure.

“I look forward to working closely with our board and continuing to collaborate with our executive and leadership team,” he said.

“ Our focus remains on strengthening CFC’s position as a leading red meat processing facility, delivering value for our shareholders, customers and community. This next chapter brings exciting opportunities for continued growth and innovation.”

New branding, website

In coming weeks, the new Casino Food Co will roll out new branding, including an updated logo, stationary, uniforms, email addresses, signage and website.

The new domain, casinofoodco.com.au, will be adopted across the business, including Casino Hide Tanners and the Booyong Pork business. Northern Rivers Meats (NRM) will continue to operate under its existing domain, nrmeats.com.au, for business and livestock communications.

The roll-out also includes approvals and updates to the Export registration over the coming weeks.