The butter produced at the Casino facility is destined for both the domestic and international markets where Richmond Dairies already exports a number of frozen dairy products.
Managing director Chris Sharpe said that the processor would maintain its farm-gate price to its suppliers from the local area and south-east Queensland.
«It’s been a turbulent week or 10 days in the dairy industry but the difference with Richmond is that we’re focussed very much on export markets,» Mr Sharpe said.
«But also, our product is very highly regarded from a quality point of view so that really holds us in good stead with our international customers.»
Mr Sharpe said he believed theirs was the only commercial butter factory in NSW or Queensland.
«The benefits of eating butter as opposed to substitutes are well recognised now and butter is making a real comeback,» he said.
«What made us go into butter is that I think it compliments what we do on the site.
«We’re very strong in the frozen cream and frozen milk concentrate export business, but butter is also another string to our bow.
«Hopefully [we have] a facility that could be used by other regional processors who may wish to make butter.»
Source: ABC