Kanmantoo fertiliser firm turns manure into export gold

This post was contributed by Graham Edwards of the Auto Collectors Club of Murray Bridge.

Murray Bridge Auto Collectors Club members have opted to make fertiliser while the sun shines, heading out on a run to Neutrog at Kanmantoo under relaxed COVID restrictions.

Twenty-three club members in 13 classic and modern vehicles, assembled at Johnstone Park for the distribution of details to participants by run coordinators Graham and Maureen Edwards.

The convoy departed the clubhouse right on 9am, heading along Thomas Street, Cypress Terrace, Rocky Gully Road and Monarto Road, and making a short stop at Monarto Safari Park’s new visitors’ entrance, buildings and parking, currently under construction.

A pipeline earth ramp made a convenient place from which to view the operations.

Many members had had no idea that the entrance to the safari park would soon be changed from the Old Princes Highway to avoid massive congestion on busy weekends.

Then it was off to the Neutrog factory on Mine Road at Kanmantoo, where members were met and welcomed by marketing and communications coordinator Megan Lannan.

Members checked in and were ushered into Neutrog’s board room, where their BYO morning tea was had.

Ms Lannan introduced customer relations manager Paul Dipuglia, who delivered an informative talk on the vast selection of garden products produced on site, with names such as Bush Tucker, Dead Horse, Litter Bugs, Rapid Raiser and Who Flung Dung, just to name a few.

Neutrog was formed in 1988, is situated on 20 acres and employs more than 50 people at Kanmantoo, and would employ more if they could.

Neutrog’s name was born from the combination of “nutrients and organics”, to accurately the true nature of products manufactured.

Neutrog supplies some of the most magnificent gardens and grounds in Australia and around the world, and are currently exporting large quantities from Australia to places like Vietnam, Singapore, Korea and Taiwan.

Run organiser Mr Edwards then presented tokens of appreciation to Ms Lannan, Mr Dipuglia and managing director Angus Irwin, while members showed their appreciation.

Then it was onto the Rufas coach, driven by Gavin, for a guided tour of the facility, with mind-boggling statistics and explanations by Mr Irwin.

Members were amazed at seeing row upon row of all sorts of s***, destined to be reproduced into high quality fertiliser.

On their return to the factory, members were given a sneak peek at the laboratory before heading off to the newly renovated Callington Oval bistro for lunch.

On arrival, chef Tricia welcomed members, and after a delicious lunch, club president Claude Minge thanked the Edwardses for another great outing.

Mr Edwards also thanked the bistro chef and staff for a great lunch.

Auto collectors club prepares for its 50th anniversary

Over almost 50 years, outings have cemented the Auto Collectors Club of Murray Bridge’s reputation for featuring diverse vintage and classic vehicles, not to mention many members who have contributed to its success.

The club’s 50th golden anniversary weekend will be held on March 26-27, 2022.

• More information: Visit autocollectorsmurraybridge.com/50th-golden-anniversary.

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