KR Castlemaine's history is etched in rural landscapes, hard work and dedication to quality products and consumers. History was made the day the merger occurred between KR Darling Downs and the Castlemaine Bacon Company. It's important to remember the origins of the two companies as it is this history which makes KR Castlemaine what it is today.

Since 1911, the Darling Downs Bacon Cooperative Association had forged its place in the hearts and minds of people across the Darling Downs. Over the years, it became apart of everyday life and has provided a livelihood for thousands of families in the region. The key to the organisation's success was always the spirit of cooperation and loyalty among its employees. Since the very beginning of time, the men and women associated with the business were committed to working together for the greater good of all.

Throughout Darling Downs Foods' long history, there were good times and bad times. Amongst the most challenging was in 1924 when a massive fire extensively damaged the original factory. Fortunately, the factory was insured and the costs were soon recovered.

As for the shareholders, their spirit of determination didn't go up in flames. The company not only survived, it flourished. And over the next few years a bigger, better factory was built increasing production dramatically.