In the heart of regional Dungog, NSW, we are thrilled to announce we’re partnering with the Dungog Wholefood Co-op to celebrate the role of co-operatives and mutuals in fostering resilient, self-sustaining regional communities. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to supporting the communities that support us.
To kick off this partnership, a breakfast event will be held at the CWA Hall on July 5, 2025, coinciding with the International Day of Co-operatives. This event also aligns with the International Year of Cooperatives and Mutuals, a global initiative recognising the positive impact of member-led organisations on communities, economies, and social wellbeing. The community is invited to join us as we discuss the value of mutuals and educate attendees on how co-operatives can help small towns thrive, even when larger businesses leave.
For Dungog, this collaboration is more than symbolic—it underscores the strength of local solutions. As you know, The Mutual Bank has been the only remaining bank branch in Dungog since the last of the ‘big four’ closed its doors about five years ago and removed its ATMs. Individuals and local businesses now have to drive 35 minutes to do any face-to-face banking with these larger institutions. In contrast, our member-owned Mutual Bank continues to operate a full-service branch six days a week, maintains the town's only main street ATM, and ensures residents and small businesses have access to essential financial services.
“When others left, we stayed,” said Mark Williams, CEO of The Mutual Bank. “Our commitment has always been to support the communities that support us. Partnering with Dungog Wholefood Co-op aligns perfectly with our values—it's about locals investing in locals and creating long-term value for the entire town.”
The Dungog Wholefood Co-op was established by a dedicated group of locals passionate about where food comes from, how it is produced, and how those who make it are treated. Prioritising small local and regional producers and makers, the co-op takes what is seasonal and fresh and pays fairly for it, helping to overcome supply chain challenges such as difficult weather, economic upheaval, and biosecurity risks. The strength of this approach was exemplified by the co-op’s uninterrupted supply of local eggs during the recent shortages. Members have a say in the running of the co-op, and all profits are returned back into improving the business and providing benefits to its members, including discounts on every single purchase. Last year, the Co-op gave back $42,215 in the form of member discounts.
“Fair food means food that’s good for people, good for the planet, and fair for the farmers who grow it,” said Graham Creed, Director at Dungog Wholefood Co-op. “Our partnership with The Mutual Bank reflects shared values—community ownership, economic self-reliance, and mutual support. That’s the strength of Dungog. Having a local branch, with real people we know and trust, adds enormous value to our Co-op. Whether it’s banking advice or a quick dash to swap change, the support we get from the branch team makes a real difference.”
Highlighting the broader significance of such collaborations, Melina Morrison, CEO of the Business Council of Co-operatives and Mutuals (BCCM), stated: “Cooperatives and mutuals are vital in building strong, resilient communities. In times of change and challenge, they provide stability and empower local people to take control of their futures. The partnership between The Mutual Bank and Dungog Wholefood Co-op exemplifies how community-led initiatives can drive positive, lasting change.”
Throughout 2025, we will collaborate on community education, local events, and initiatives that raise awareness about the power of mutual and cooperative models to deliver real, long-term value. The breakfast event on July 5 will be the first of many opportunities for the community to engage with and learn about the benefits of cooperatives and mutuals.
