Hundreds of Bega Cheese workers are facing an uncertain future after the company announced it would shut down operations in the tiny Victorian town of Strathmerton.
Bega Group’s Strathmerton cheese processing and packaging operations employ about 300 people, who could face a transfer or a job loss after the phased closure ends in mid-2026.
CEO Peter Findlay said the decision was motivated by the need to “simplify our operational footprint” and “maintain globally competitive infrastructure”.
In a published announcement, Bega Group said it was working closely with the 300 affected employees and would support them through the transition.
“We are very aware of the impact of this decision, and we are doing our best to manage this transition with care and respect for our Strathmerton employees and the local community,” Findlay said.
“Where possible, we will offer re-deployment to employees and continue to support them through this period.”
Bizarre reason serial killer gave for shooting spree
The processing and packaging operations currently in place at Strathmerton will be moved to the company’s Ridge Street facility in Bega, New South Wales.
Bega Group said it expected this move to create 100 jobs in the Bega Valley.
The company maintains five more facilities in Victoria, at Tatura, Morwell, Chelsea, Koroit, and Port Melbourne, employing more than 1700 people.
The Strathmerton facility will operate until mid-2026.
