The Co Op Dairy re-opens after 119 years
Re-opening 119 years after it was first established, the Co-op Dairy is once again a cooperative workspace, with the aim to become a a creative hub for makers, doers, and everyone in between.
Published 25 Oct 2024
Toowoomba’s newest cooperative workspace might be brand new, but its roots run deep.
Originally established in 1905 as a dairy cooperative, the Co-op Dairy building (Brook Street) once thrummed with the hustle of local farmers pooling their resources to churn out fresh milk, butter, and cheese for the thriving agricultural centre growing rapidly around it. Back then, it was a vital community hub, a place for collaboration and shared knowledge that helped shape the region’s agricultural heart.
Fast forward to today, and that spirit of cooperation lives on—this time for makers, creatives, and freelancers. The reimagined Co-op Dairy is now a coworking space that invites the community to come together in a new way; a space for makers, doers, and everyone in between.
For Mouse Proof Brewery’s John Bennett, the face behind the project, this has been a long time in the making. It’s an extension of his passion for creating spaces that foster community:
“It’s part of the reason we were so excited about this venue—such a rich heritage of exactly that,” John explains.
“We started talking about this well over a year ago. What if we could create a space where local artists, makers, and creators could all come together in one place?”
Starting something new can be daunting, he notes, “so this gives people a place to be surrounded by like-minded folks, in a space that’s designed to be as accessible as possible.”
Already, the space is buzzing with activity, hosting Pop’d Art Studio and Gallery, a coffee roastery, a beer appreciation society, town planners, and more. And with audio recording, podcasting facilities, and a 3D printing lab in the works, Co-op Dairy is shaping up to be a dynamic new hub for Toowoomba’s creative community.
Don’t miss the grand opening this weekend—complete with complimentary beer and nibbles from Mouse Proof!
