A multi-sector delegation from the Philippines successfully completed the Australian Agricultural and Labor Cooperatives Study Tour held across Victoria, Australia. The week-long program brought together leaders from major cooperatives, the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), representatives from the Local Government Unit of Iriga City, and institutional partners from both countries with the shared goal of exploring sustainable agricultural systems and cooperative-led workforce pathways.
The delegation officially commenced the tour upon its arrival in Melbourne, where participants were welcomed and briefed on the week’s objectives. The program highlighted Australia’s leading agricultural practices, cooperative business models, and industry innovations that can inform future initiatives in the Philippines.
One of the first major field visits was to Manna Hill Estate in Mount Egerton, a 40-hectare biodynamic, organic, and regenerative farm owned by Campbell Mercer. Participants were given an in-depth look at soil health management, regenerative farming techniques, and value-adding strategies that have led to the estate’s award-winning organic olive oil. The hands-on learning experience offered insights into long-term sustainability and environmental stewardship.
The study tour also featured engagements with Australia’s dairy cooperative sector. At The Hermitage Dairy, a member of the Mountain Milk Cooperative, the group observed firsthand how dairy farmers operate under a cooperative model that prioritizes shared growth and resilience. Stuart Crosthwaite, Managing Director of Mountain Milk Cooperative, also introduced the delegation to Filipino migrant worker Josh Zamora from Bicol, emphasizing the contributions and potential of Filipino talent in the Australian dairy industry.
Another key visit took place at TAFCO Rural Supplies in the Alpine Region, a long-standing community-owned cooperative serving North East Victoria. General Manager Rupert Shaw shared TAFCO’s operational model, which places member and community service above profit. Delegates learned about TAFCO’s wide range of agricultural products, its reinvestment of earnings back into the community, and its role in farmer training and local economic development. The visit showcased how purpose-driven cooperatives can effectively uplift regional communities.
The study tour concluded with a high-level strategic meeting attended by the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), the Federation of Labor Service Cooperatives of the Philippines (FLSCC), Capacité Australia, Capacité Development Center Philippines, the Business Council of Co-operatives and Mutuals (BCCM), and representatives from the Local Government Unit of Iriga City. The session was further elevated by the participation of Philippine Consul General Jesus “Gary” Domingo, highlighting the strong support for bilateral cooperation.
Also present were leaders from several billionaire cooperatives in the Philippines:
Nueva Segovia Consortium of Cooperatives, Generation One Resource Service and MPC, Ako Ikaw May-Ari ng Kooperatiba (AIMKO), PERA Multipurpose Cooperative, Hamtic Multipurpose Cooperative, and Kooperatiba Naton Multipurpose Cooperative. Despite their established success, these cooperatives reaffirmed their commitment to continuous learning, technological adoption, and pursuing developmental strategies for their members and communities.
While discussions are ongoing and next steps continue to be shaped, all participating organizations described the meeting as forward-leaning, productive, and highly collaborative. The strong alignment among stakeholders signals the potential for long-term, impactful programs focused on workforce development, cooperative strengthening, and sustainable cross-country partnerships.
The Australian Agricultural and Labor Cooperatives Study Tour marks a significant step toward building a more innovative, globally connected, and future-ready cooperative sector for the Philippines. The insights gained and partnerships formed throughout the week have created momentum for broader cooperation between the Philippines and Australia—signaling the beginning of new initiatives that can transform opportunities for Filipino workers and cooperative communities.
