Community
22 July, 2026
Celebrating 100 years
AUSTRALIA’S best-selling butter, Western Star, has unveiled a refreshed giant butter block at Cobden’s Pioneer Park as part of its centenary celebrations.
The company recently rewrapped the iconic giant butter block to resemble Western Star’s 100th anniversary edition of the 250g original salted butter packaging.
The landmark was the company’s first public celebration of the 100-year milestone, chosen due to the company’s long-standing relationship with Cobden.
Western Star regional operations manager south west and Tasmania Nick Hayes said it was a proud moment for the iconic brand to reflect on its history as a staple of Australian households.
“For 100 years, Western Star has been part of how Australians cook, bake and celebrate, and it’s a brand that has been trusted by generations,” he said.
“What makes our history so special is the people behind it.
“Western Star has been shaped by generations of local farmers, butter makers, factory workers and families whose care, skill and pride have helped make the brand what it is today.
“As we celebrate this milestone, it’s an opportunity to reflect on 100 years of heritage, but also to recognise the people and community who have played such an important role in Western Star’s enduring place in Australian homes.”
The unveiling of the rewrapped block at Pioneer Park is just the beginning, with plans to celebrate the milestone over the coming months through the celebration of the south west workers who make the product what it is.
“Western Star is marking its 100th birthday by celebrating the people, places and communities that have helped shape the brand over the past century,” Mr Hayes said.
“The refreshed giant Western Star butter block in Cobden is one of the first local moments in the celebrations and is a proud way to recognise Western Star’s long-standing connection to the town.
“For many locals and visitors, it’s a familiar landmark, so it feels like a fitting way to kick off the centenary celebrations locally.
“There’s more to come as part of the broader 100th birthday celebrations, with a focus on bringing people together, recognising Western Star’s history and thanking the local community who have supported the brand along the way.”
Mr Hayes said recognising Cobden, where the company has been based from the very start, was integral to Western Star.
“Western Star has a very deep connection to Cobden and the surrounding region, and that connection has been built over generations,” he said.
“The Cobden factory has long been an important part of the local dairy industry and continues to support local employment, farming families and the broader community.
“Today, it produces butter, spreads, milk, cream and milk powder, including Western Star products, and employs around 300 people.
“But the impact goes beyond the factory itself.
“For me, Western Star is a reflection of the people behind it, who have been part of the story over many years – whose care and pride have helped build the brand over the past 100 years.”
Mr Hayes said Western Star was taking the moment to celebrate its 100-year history, but is also maintaining a focus on the future.
“The brand will continue to build on the foundations that have been created over the past century, while evolving with the needs of Australians,” he said.
“What won’t change is the commitment to quality butter and the unmistakeable taste that Australians know and love.
“Looking ahead, Western Star’s next chapter will continue to be shaped by its people, from local farmers and factory teams to the communities that have supported the brand for generations.
“That connection is a big part of Western Star’s story, and it will continue to be just as important in the years ahead.”
Read More: Cobden