Membership of CACAO is now open - support the Australian cocoa industry
Cacao and Chocolate of Australian Origin (CACAO) is the newly formed industry body for the cocoa industry https://www.cacao.org.au/
The Board held its first meeting with members via Zoom on Monday 31st July. Attending were cocoa growers, chocolate makers, researchers and chocolate aficianados. Topics discussed included:
- the strategic direction of the organisation,
- the workshop to be held in FNQ on 25th October 2023
- policy issues
- PR for the new organisation
Show your support for the industry by JOINING. Any interested person can join as a Chocolate Aficionado Free Foundation Member. Sign up here.
Other categories of membership are cocoa grower, chocolate maker, researcher.
Background
CACAO is a result of the Agri Futures Australian Cocoa Strategic RD&E Plan (2022-2027) which detailed three priorities for an Australian and Pacific Islands cocoa industry to grow:
- profitable cocoa-growing systems;
- quality and differentiated Australian-grown cocoa for premium markets;
- and a thriving Australian cocoa industry body
CACAO seeks to address the third priority area. An emerging industry will not be heard without a viable industry body.
CACAO Ltd was formed in 2023 as the peak industry body for the Australian-Pacific Origin Cocoa and Chocolate industry. CACAO was formed out of the need to collectively advance the industry through agreed standards, marketing, education and advocacy.
FNQ cocoa growers
The number of local FNQ growers is increasing but more are needed if Australian grown cocoa is to become an established industry and meet the increasing demand for green and clean products. Here are some pods from a local grower ready for processing at Charley’s in December 2022
Background
Agri Futures Australian Cocoa Strategic RD&E Plan (2022-2027)
The three priorities of profitable cocoa-growing systems; quality and differentiated Australian-grown cocoa for premium markets; and a thriving Australian cocoa industry are underpinned by the seven strategies:
1. Develop
labour-efficient, high-yielding and economic tree training and renewal systems
2. Select and propagate high-performing cocoa varieties
3. Implement biosecurity and pest and disease management
4. Lift the profile, quality and reputation of Australian-grown cocoa and cocoa
products
5. Ensure Australian-grown cocoa is safe, quality, sustainable and ethical
6. Disseminate information and foster industry collaboration
7. Investigate opportunities for industry growth
References
The cocoa industry in FNQ
https://www.charleys.com.au/blog/the-cocoa-industry-in-fnq-/
Agri Futures Australian Cocoa Strategic RD&E Plan (2022-2027)
https://agrifutures.com.au/product/australian-cocoa-strategic-rde-plan-2022-2027/