Bringing Prosperity to the Valley

A History of the Manning Valley Dairy Industry

By Bill Beach

The opening of the Manning Valley’s first co-operative butter factory in 1893 ushered in a long period of unparalleled growth, and financial stability, throughout the Manning Valley. Dairying reigned supreme as the backbone of the economy with over 1,700 family owned farms sending milk and cream to six butter factories.

However, it didn’t last. Industry deregulation, commencing in the 1900s, saw many farmers leave the industry as small farms became unviable. The butter factories closed as milk was now sent direct to the cities.

Today, the local industry faces the challenge of surviving in an environment of low milk prices and increasing costs.

Using meticulous research, Bill Beach tells the story of the rise and fall of dairying in the Manning Valley.

Softcover

138 Pages

21 cm x 29.5 cm

Cost: $25