THE Dungog Wholefood Co-operative is a grocery store and smoothie bar with a difference.

Formed in April 2022 at 152 Dowling Street, the member-owned co-operative recently moved to a bigger space at 205 Dowling Street.

In the beginning, a passionate and diverse group of Dungog locals got together to discuss ways of growing the demand for and bolstering the resilience of local food production.

Inspired by the proud and continuing tradition of agriculture in Dungog Shire, they were keen to see more food grown, and made, sold and eaten right here.

“We saw opportunities to support existing small businesses, growers and makers while encouraging more to establish,” Co-op representatives said.

“This has been possible by providing producers with a central, convenient place to sell and market their products with a growing customer base.

“Together we’ve made these products even more accessible both to the community and to visitors interested in taking home a piece of Dungog for their table.”

Unlike standard grocery stores, members of the Dungog Wholefood Co-op have a say in how the business is run.

Profits are returned back to the business and used to make improvements and to grow.

“Our focus is on providing benefits to our members who also enjoy a 10 percent off every time they shop,” the team said.

“Our independence also means we can prioritise smaller producers who we maintain a direct relationship with.

“We can respond to the challenges of difficult weather and economic upheaval as they arise and work with producers to overcome them.

“That is, there are no middle people.

“And, unlike the grocery giant duopoly of Coles and Woolies, we never lock farmers into unfair contracts or unreasonable pricing arrangements.

“We take what is seasonal and fresh and pay fairly for it.”

The Co-operative currently offers a range of quality local products including fresh produce, bread, eggs, honey, olives, condiments and jams.

Some new local products in the freezer include pasture-raised whole chickens from Ethical Farmers at Hanley’s Creek and even ice-cream from Ballimore Farms at Seaham.

“Alongside our local lines, we stock 100 percent Australian grown organic fruit and vegetables as well as an extensive range of everyday grocery items, including bulk wholefoods, sustainable body care and cleaning products.

“We’re also a great place to grab that treat or gift for a foodie in your life with beautiful gourmet cheeses and nibbles, non-alcoholic beverages, chocolates and confectionery.

“Not forgetting of course our delicious, freshly made juices and smoothies blended and tested by our in-house nutritionist available 10:30am – 2:30pm daily.”

A tasting event will be held at the Co-operative on 29 March from 10am-1pm.

Hailing from the Blue Mountains, Bibi of Bibi’s Kitchen runs a micro business creating ready-made spice and curry mixes, sauces and condiments.

The Co-operative recently moved from being 100 percent volunteer run to a hybrid model.

“Currently the business employs six people from our shire on a part time basis, and we plan to grow this number,” the team said.

“We’re proud to have created jobs in Dungog, further strengthening the local economy.

“As well as the paid staff we have a dedicated group of volunteers who give their time regularly to keep the co-op running smoothly.”