The Co-operative model: Commerce with a conscience with Sam Byrne, Secretary of the Co-op Federation

This week on Farming Together we speak to Co-op Federation Secretary Same Byrne. Sam explains why the co-operative model is still relevant and how many co-operative pitfalls can be prevented by educating members. He also gets excited about some up-and-coming co-ops which are set to disrupt the market and give more back to the community. Topics covered What is the Co-op Federation? The Co-op business model: How does it work? Why would you choose a co-op over other models? Largest and oldest agriculture co-ops. Is it old fashioned? Importance of education for members. Co-ops get a reputation for its 'burden of democracy' but personality issues arise in any organisation. School students, accountants, and lawyers don't have enough education regarding co-operatives. Why do co-ops fail? Exciting new co-ops: Disruptive solutions-faced co-ops. Solving community problems: Commerce with a conscience The unifying nature of farming co-operatives Sam's co-operative memberships Extra resources: Co-op Federation website Co-op Federation Facebook Co-op Federation Instagram Co-op Federation Assembly 2021 registration

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Farming Together, brought to you by Southern Cross University. A conversation between host Farming Together Program manager Amanda Scott and the farmer, fisher and forestry groups which were supported by the University’s program. You will hear how groups worked collaboratively to build stronger, more resilient farming communities in the face of increasingly complex environmental, economic and social challenges.