Creating a new Victorian Farmers Federation-run grain co-operative is just re-inventing the wheel according to the forces behind one of the State’s existing grain marketers.
Southern Quality Produce Co-operative (SQP), Vic, general manager Ben Fleay said the VFF proposal to create a new co-op by this harvest to market members’ grain provides a clear direction for farmers but appears to ignore the existence of co-operative structures already in place.
He said the SQP Co-op had been successfully marketing grain on behalf of Victorian growers since 2001.
“I cannot see a good reason why VFF need to go to the cost of creating a duplicate structure,” Mr Fleay said.
“SQP is already operating a successful co-operative model, delivering innovative grain marketing products and services throughout Victoria, and all Victorian grain growers are eligible to join.”
He said SQP would welcome the chance to discuss the issue in detail with the VFF in particular scope for VFF and SQP to work together to expand the opportunity for co-operative grain marketing across Victoria.
SOURCE: Stock & Land, Vic