Historical information

The Warrnambool Co-operative had its beginnings as the Allansford Artificial Breeders Co-operative in the 1960's. In the 1970s they opened a retail store in Timor Street which had a strong rural and farming base which gradually expanded to become the largest trading department store in the district. By the late 1990's they had 8000 members and employed 84 full time and 120 casual staff. It met a sorry end in the 2000's.This plaque commemorates the opening of the Rural store which consolidated the large rural aspect of the business. It opened up the site from Merri Street at the back of the Timor Street building trading in all agricultural products, , chemicals and fuels.

Significance

A link to one of Warrnambool's largest stores of the latter part of the 20th century and as such it has historical and social significance.

Physical description

Rectangular brass plaque with stamped black text with eight screws around the edge attaching it to a piece of heavy particle board , painted black.

Inscriptions & markings

Warrnambool Co-Op rural Store officially opened by the Mayor of Warrnambool Cr. Gerald Shanley on Wednesday, 8th October 1997.