Co-op converts to Unlisted Public Company

Casino, NSW – The Board and Executive of Casino Food Company Ltd (CFC) are pleased to announce that the company has officially been registered as an Unlisted Public Company, effective 12 May 2025.

This pivotal transition from the Northern Co-operative Meat Company (NCMC) to Casino Food Company Ltd marks a significant milestone in our corporate journey—ushering in a new era while honouring the legacy of one of Australia’s most respected regional meat processors.

Board Appointments

The transition also brings about a change to the Board.

After more than a decade of dedicated executive leadership, John Seccombe has stepped down as Chairman, and Damien Dougherty has stepped down from his role as Deputy Chairman. Both will remain active contributors to the business as Directors on the Board, alongside Neil Short.

Frank Hannigan who has been an adviser to the Board for the past 12 months and appointed Director of CFC, has been selected Chairman, with Lennard Blok stepping into the role of Deputy Chairman—a position he previously held from 2012 to 2016 when on the Board. Frank brings a combination of leadership experience and professional qualifications, including legal and commercial expertise, making him well-positioned to guide the company in this new corporate structure.

Lennard’s reappointment as Deputy Chairman reflects his longstanding dedication to the company and its values. With his depth of business acumen in both agribusiness, logistics and Board experience, he brings stability and insight to the leadership team during this transition.

The Board recognises the remarkable contribution of John Seccombe, who has served as a Director since 2010 and as Chairman from 2013 to 2025. Under his stewardship, the Co-operative had undergone substantial transformation—strengthening governance practices, championing innovation, and consistently advocating for the interests of members and stakeholders. Worth noting, John was only the ninth Chairman in the ninety-two-year history of the Co-operative.

In his remarks, John shared:

“Serving as Chairman of the Co-operative has been a great honour. The transformation we’ve achieved as a team—particularly the shift to an unlisted public company—positions us strongly for the future. I’m confident in Frank and Lennard’s leadership, and look forward to continuing to contribute as a Director.”

With the adoption of the new CFC Constitution, we acknowledge the retirement of former Directors Mrs. A. Seccombe, Mr. M. Blok, and Mr. R. Sinnamon. We thank them sincerely for their service whilst on the Board.

A Message from the Chairman

Frank Hannigan, Chairman of CFC, reflected on the moment:

“The move to Casino Food Company Ltd opens new structural opportunities and reflects the evolution of the business. While it remains business as usual operationally, this new status positions the company to better respond to the market, embrace new opportunities, and ensure long-term sustainability. I extend heartfelt thanks to the past Directors for their committed contribution and look forward to working with fellow Directors as we embark on this exciting chapter together.”

CEO Statement

CEO Simon Stahl shared his thoughts on the transformation:

I look forward to working closely with our Board and continuing to collaborate with our Executive and leadership team. Our focus remains on strengthening CFC’s position as a leading red meat processing facility, delivering value for our shareholders, customers and community. This next chapter brings exciting opportunities for continued growth and innovation.

Roll Out of New Branding

Over the coming weeks, we will roll out our new branding, including an updated logo, stationary, uniforms, email addresses, signage and website.

The new domain, casinofoodco.com.au, will be adopted across the business, including Casino Hide Tanners (CHT) and Booyong Pork business. Northern Rivers Meats (NRM) will continue to operate under its existing domain, nrmeats.com.au, for business and livestock communications.

Please note that all core business details remain unchanged—this includes our phone numbers, address, ABN, and banking information.

The roll out also includes approvals and updates to the Export registration over the coming weeks.  

Looking Ahead

With a refreshed structure and a dedicated leadership team, Casino Food Company will focus on the opportunities that lie ahead. While we have transitioned from the co-operative model, our commitment to remain an industry leader in the red meat processing sector whilst building a profitable, sustainable, and diversified business, grounded in strong governance and proudly embedded within our regional community remains unchanged.

All media enquiries to:
Annabelle Toohey/Company Secretary: annabelle@cassino.com.au
Ph: (02) 6662 2444