Hastings Co-operative Ltd was established in 1916 as a dairy co-operative to manufacture and market dairy products. Since that time, the co-op has experienced steady growth and with over 7000 shareholders, it is a driving force in the community.

Hastings Co-operative processes milk and dairy products for 73 farmers at its factory in Wauchope, winning awards for: Wauchope Gloucester style cheese, Hastings low-fat yogurts, cream, custard, milk, and a new product - "organic milk."

As the smallest milk packaging plant in NSW, the co-op could not compete with larger processors. Merger options were considered, however, the co-op investigated, developed and now successfully supplies niche markets. New products include: a bush food inspired yogurt - "honey and lemon myrtle."

The co-op's businesses include: a supermarket, department store, farm services, two service stations and bulk fuel deliveries. Approximately 200 people are employed, including school age juniors, who work after school and weekends in the supermarket. The experience gained helps them in the move from school into the workforce.

The co-op's business operations complement each other by helping spread the organisation's risk and creating loyalty within the community. Many local clubs and organisations benefit from sponsorship provided by the co-op. These include: Wauchope Football Club, Bonny Hills Surf Lifesaving Club, rural fire brigades, netball clubs and Lions Sports Foundation. The return to the community has consistently been around 1/2 million dollars annually. The Co-op's secretary, Marie Winter says that,"the money goes around in a circle, a very productive circle, and it works for us.

Shareholders receive yearly dividends and rebate vouchers for business done with the co-op. Last year a 10% fully franked dividend cheque and a rebate on business transacted with the co-op was paid in the form a bonus voucher. Membership/ shareholder cards have recently been issued. These have been welcomed by shareholders. The cards allow for precise recording of the shareholders' rebates at the co-operative's retail outlets.