logo graphic

About Us

From humble beginnings in 1926 to today, bowral co-op has always been here for the southern highlands community.

logo graphic

Our history

Our story began almost a century ago, with a daIry co-op, a mission for fairness, and a vision of a thriving agricultural industry.

And though a lot has changed since then, both in the Co-op and in the world around us, our dedication to the farmers and families in our area has only grown stronger. 

Today, we continue as a co-op, expanded far beyond dairy, serving locals through an expansive product range and expert agricultural services. 

the journey to today

June 1

1926

Icon preparing
Bowral Co-op initially formed as a butter factory and milk depot.
January 1

1930

Icon planting
During this decade, the Co-op installed the latest butter moulding and wrapping machinery, making it one of the most modern factories in NSW.
January 1

1972

Icon sapling
Bowral Co-op (Trading) was formed to operate the retail business, which continued to expand over the years that followed.
January 1

2016

Icon growing
The retail store was upgraded to provide more space to expand our product range and improve the customer experience.
January 1

2018

Icon plants
The Co-op added the Saddleworld franchise to its retail store, and it is a growing provider within the flourishing equine industry in the Highlands.
logo graphic

Our vision

When we look to the future, we hope to see a resilient and SUCCESSFUL agricultural community that has not just survived change, but thrived in the face of it.

We know our Co-op is integral to making that happen, so every day, we will continue to bring agricultural people together in one community.

We will empower you with quality products, cutting-edge services, expert knowledge and the connections you need to overcome emerging challenges, embrace innovation, and build resilience and success.

Taking the co-op into the future

Co-op CEO, Mark Freund, is known for his commitment to the community — to every member, every customer, and every person our business can serve and support. 

quote icon

For a while, co-ops seemed to go out of fashion, but they’ve made a comeback in a big way! Why? Because now, more than ever, we really need to work together to look after our land and our people. That’s what our Co-op does. It’s not just a shop; it’s something so much bigger and better, and it’s here to empower our community as we pave a path to a collective brighter future. 

– Mark Freund, CEO

Our values

icon plants

Community

We are driven by community – by coming together, sharing ideas, supporting each other and creating something bigger than ourselves.

icon shovel

Teamwork

We believe in working together – in collective strength, knowledge and respect geared towards achieving common goals.

icon hand and plant

Service

We are committed to meeting (and exceeding!) the needs and expectations of others, with integrity, empathy and excellence.

icon drop

Knowledge

We are motivated by learning and understanding, pursuing knew insights wherever we can, and willingly sharing them with others.

icon sun

authenticity

We are always genuine, transparent and honest in all our interactions, and we encourage everyone to be their true selves, without fear.

icon growing

GROWTH

We are continuously working towards personal, professional, organisational and community advancement and progress, for the betterment of everyone.

Our team

Mark Freund

The CEO of Bowral Co-op, Mark brings extensive experience managing properties and local organisations. 

Sylvia Cortez

Sylvia Cortez

The CFO of the Bowral Co-op, Sylvia was previously a very successful CFO, then CEO of a co-op in NSW. 

Georgie Poulton

The Retail Manager of Bowral Co-op, Georgie’s experience and relationship building have helped transform our store. 

Our board

STEPHEN HALL

STEPHEN HALL
Chair

REBECCA HOGAN

REBECCA HOGAN
Deputy Chair

TONY BUTLER

TONY BUTLER
Director

GLENN DUDLEY

GLENN DUDLEY
Director

CAMERON PIERCE

CAMERON PIERCE
Director

Co-op in the community

Merry Christmas

Christmas hours and message

This Christmas and New Years, we'll be open and ready for
Annual Doggy Photo Day - Bowral Co-op

A ‘ruff’ start to a very rewarding day!

Despite a bit of 'ruff' weather, our 2023 Annual Doggy Photo
Free Growers Info Session

Bowral Co-op Grower Info Series

The first of our Grower Info Series kicked off in November