"In contrast to the butchers of today, the industry prior to 1905 was severely demoralized. Bad debts and overdue reforms in the market place were inhibiting growth and threatening the livelihood of many butchers." - Bruce Carter

On Saturday night, 5 February 2005, 750 butchers and meat industry representatives from all over South Australia put down there cleavers and converged on the Adelaide Convention Centre to celebrate the centenary of one of the world's most enduring co-operatives. Formed in 1905, Master Butchers Co-operative Limited (MBL) is the oldest co-operative in South Australia.

A highlight of the evening was the launch of a commemorative history book, Master Butchers Limited - Our First Hundred Years, by the Federal Member for Makin, the Hon. Trish Draper. This historical account traces the development of MBL by a handful of disgruntled butchers in 1905, and its transformation into the multi-million dollar co-operative of today.

Bruce Carter, General Manager of Master Butchers Co-operative Limited says, "In contrast to the butchers of today, the industry prior to 1905 was severely demoralized. Bad debts and overdue reforms in the market place were inhibiting growth and threatening the livelihood of many butchers."

MBL has 450 meat industry members from across South Australia, Northern Territory, Broken Hill and western Victoria. The co-op employs over 50 people and its annual turnover exceeds 20 million. For more on the celebrations read the press release or email Bruce at mbl@adam.com.au