Oz Blueberry Co-op inspires German growers in study trip

14 February 2015

Blueberry growers from Germany have spent three weeks studying Australian farm practices, including an illuminating tour to Australian co-op Oz Group Co-operative, which manages over 25% of Australia’s total blueberry crop.

A tour of the Oz Group Co-operative at Woolgoolga, north of Coffs Harbour, left an impression on the group.

Eighty-five blueberry growers from across the region send fruit to the co-operative for packing and marketing.

Mr Gerkenns said that structure was missing for the blueberry industry in Germany.

“We have co-operatives for apples but not for blueberries, and maybe it’s now a kick to do this together in Germany for blueberries.”

Blueberry and ginseng grower, Henrike Rodemeier, also had the co-operative on her list of highlights.

“That was very impressive to me, how the farmers stay together to get the best price,” she said.

Read the full story Australia’s blueberry industry inspires German growers during study trip,  ABC Rural, 10 February