Cheese production became popular because it kept better than butter and needed less preservation for long transportation. Private cheese factories were built on many properties and they produced a variety of cheeses from the milk delivered from their own and neighbouring properties. By 1917 there were 47 cheese factories in the Bega Valley and 9 of them were in the area from Bemboka to Wolumla.

The “Bega Gazette” reported that by the 1880s “The Island Factory” at Kameruka was the most advanced of the local cheese factories.

“It has a lofty, well-ventilated building, fitted with the best American troughs, presses, heating and cooling aparatus. Three herds of cows, consisting of about 100 each, supply the milk to the factory.

We can testify to the quality of the cheese which is really excellent. The cheese is despatched according to age and not with any regard for the price ruling in the Sydney market.”

Cheese factories in 1917.

Ayrdale Cheese Factory Wolumla

Bright Hills Factory Candelo

Deep Dene Factory (Mrs A. Targett) Tantawanglo

Fernlee Factory Bimbaya

Lane’s XXX Kameruka Candelo

‘Niagara’ Cheese Factory Kameruka

‘Rose Brook’ Factory (Lucas Bros) Candelo

‘The Island’ Cheese Factory (Kameruka Est) Kameruka

‘Wolumla’ Cheese Factory (Kameruka Est) Toothdale