The town of Laura, located in South Australia’s mid-north, is facing an uncertain future following the announcement that renowned ice cream manufacturer Golden North will shut down its local factory. This establishment has been a foundational part of the community since 1923 but will transition production to a more expansive facility in Murray Bridge over the upcoming year.
The closure has raised alarms regarding potential negative impacts on Laura’s local economy and tourism. Local business owner Frank Bernhardt expressed his concerns, stating that losing 70 jobs would significantly harm the small town, which relies heavily on the draw of the Golden North brand to attract visitors. Fellow resident Dan Corbett shared similar apprehensions about the potential economic downturn that might follow this major change.
Golden North has carved out a central role in Laura’s identity, and the company’s executives acknowledged the emotional difficulty of leaving the town. However, they cited the necessity of relocating to ensure the brand’s growth and sustainability. Managing director Dimitrios Kyriazis noted, “We’re actually small victims of our success,” indicating that the company has outgrown its current site. He emphasised the importance of scaling up to thrive as a business.
The new facility in Murray Bridge, previously owned by Beston Global Food Company, is expected to significantly enhance production capacity by allowing Golden North to produce 5 to 6 times more ice cream than they currently do. Factory manager Rick Willis highlighted that the move will also facilitate closer proximity to milk suppliers, further enhancing operational efficiency.
The implications of this announcement have already begun to affect those within the community. Local teacher Brooke Skinner reported that students have approached her feeling emotional and upset because their parents are now facing job insecurity as they search for new employment opportunities.
The situation in Laura serves as a stark reminder of how interconnected a community can be with a single business and the far-reaching effects that such closures can have on local sentiment and economic health. The future remains uncertain as residents grapple with the news and look for ways to adapt amid the changes ahead.