This year marks 40 years since Suncoast Gold Macadamias was founded by Australian growers in the heart of the ancestral home of the macadamia. The vision of our founders was to build market security for growers and deliver Australian premium macadamia products to the world. Four decades on, that vision remains strong.
Founded in 1985 by forward-thinking local growers determined to take control of their future, Suncoast Gold Macadamias has grown into one of the region’s most iconic businesses.
The company is 100% owned by Australian macadamia growers, and every decision it makes is for the benefit of its grower shareholders and the long-term strength of the industry. Unlike many processors, Suncoast Gold remains committed to processing 100% of its macadamia crop right here in Gympie, ensuring local jobs and maintaining the highest standards of quality and efficiency.
From its early years, the company quickly set benchmarks for the global industry. In 1993, it became the first macadamia processor in the world to introduce an internationally recognised quality management system, a reflection of its commitment to excellence.
By the turn of the millennium, the factory was processing more than 5,000 tonnes annually, gaining a reputation worldwide for consistency, product innovation, and customer service.
Today, its modern facility continues to utilise the latest technology to uphold the quality long associated with the Suncoast Gold brand. Suncoast Gold’s global reach expanded further in 2010 through Green & Gold Macadamias, a joint venture with South Africa’s Green Farms Nut Company.
Now the world’s largest macadamia kernel marketer, Green & Gold Macadamias has driven new product development and focuses on positive customer outcomes, creating sustainable markets for Australian growers. The factory is today a modern facility that utilises the latest technology to ensure the quality long associated with its brand is maintained. The companies’ loyal suppliers, dedicated staff and forward-thinking board have all combined to ensure Suncoast Gold remain at the forefront of this blossoming industry.
Suncoast Gold’s General Manager, Julian Lancaster-Smith, added: “We remain committed to processing all our Australian Macadamias here in our Gympie factory, focusing on a bulk range of both raw and value-added macadamia products for our diverse customer base.”
While the company’s success belongs to its growers, staff, and board, the pioneering work of industry leaders such as Ian McConachie helped pave the way. A grower, researcher, and author, McConachie was one of the original Gympie growers who believed in establishing a grower-owned processor. His recently released book, The Macadamia – Australia’s Gift to the World, reflects on the industry’s journey and his lifelong passion for Australia’s native nut.
As Suncoast Gold Macadamias celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2025, it remains firmly focused on the future. Delivering value for growers, investing in local processing and local jobs, and ensuring the continued growth and prosperity of the Australian macadamia industry.
