I have been a Byron Shire resident for more than 20 years. Having been a member of organic food co-ops since the 70s I sought out organic food when I arrived and, of course, found Santos. I became a shareholder, not as a personal investment, but to support the strong sense of community based on wholesome food, and genuine care for each other and the environment. That is what attracted me to stay in this area.
Some of Santos’s staff have been there as familiar faces watching my children grow as I watched theirs and a sense of mutual care and family has arisen from their genuine, generous, and dedicated commitment to people.
Now many of the staff are resigning, on sick/stress leave and early long-service leave. This clearly implies difficulties in the workplace, not a loss of interest in the very industry they have had lifelong commitments to.
I am sad and alarmed. What has happened? I can’t imagine Mullumbimby without Santos, without a vibrant heart. An organisation based on ethics must be ethical in its care of its people, staff and customers. Let’s wake up before it’s too late.
Moana Pearl O’Brien, Goonengerry
