FOR the past six years Jacqui Wood from Mallabula has been importing container loads of coffee beans from the villages of New Guinea, roasting them and selling them under the ‘Ethica’ label.

 

“I have long-time ties with New Guinea as my mother was a native of the highland region,” she said.

“The coffee farmers were making very little from their crops so I thought that I would cut out the middleman and give them a better return for their efforts.”

“It didn’t really work out the way I planned, so I changed tack. These days I buy the raw beans, process them and sell them to cafes, restaurants and in markets,” she said.

“I then return any profits in the form of school furniture, books and medical equipment. So far I have been able to fit out 11 schools. Shortly I’ll be returning to celebrate the graduation of a girls’ literacy class near Goroka.”

Jacqui’s home base is in the industrial estate at Lemon Tree Passage and so far she has imported and roasted ten shipping containers of coffee beans. Each container holds 322 bags.

“Many people go through life looking for meaning and fulfilment but find  happiness elusive,” she said.

“I’ve followed my star and found my destiny and contentment in making a difference to lives of others.”

Readers wanting more information on the availability of ‘Ethica’ coffee can contact Jacqui on: 0412 779 319.

 

By Geoff WALKER