Front page of Warrnambool Co-operative Society Ltd web site, 24 October 2007

The administrator of the co-operative , Ferrier Hodgson, is looking for a buyer.

The Warrnambool Co-operative Society Ltd was established in 1960 when 32 farmers subscribed to establish the co-operative.

The co-operative's principal activities have been retail sales, herd improvement and milk harvesting services.

Milestones since its establishment in 1960 have included:

• 1963 Artificial insemination business strengthened and merchandise is sold to members from the boot of a car.
• 1964 Membership 412 and annual turnover A$280,000
• 1976 Membership more than 1,000 and name Warrnambool Co-operative Society Limited formally adopted.
• 1982 Turnover exceeds A$5 million and membership 1,791
• 1992 Expansion of main store in Timor Street and booklet published - Highlights in History
• 1996 Turnover more than A$20 million and membership over 5000
• 2000 Turnover A$32 million, more than 8000 members and Chief Executive Bill Quinlan retires after 40 years with the co-operative.
• 2005 Western Herd sold to Genetics Australia.