French-born Franck Beaurain developed Jindi Deluxe Blue and Fire Engine Red, King Island Endeavour Blue and Black Label Brie and Puhoi Valley Kawau Blue. 

An Australian citizen since 1998, Mr Beaurain started his new post as chief cheese maker at the South-Albury-based factory recently.

“I’m looking forward to the potential and opportunities here,” he said.

“In France cheese makers work on one product; in Australia there is more freedom and time for developing different cheeses.”

Riverina Dairy chief executive Melissa Sweetland said Mr Beaurain and his cheeses were known worldwide.

“We have a very loyal following for our fetta, haloumi and yoghurt and we are looking forward to working with Franck and our customers to expand this offering,” she said.

The Riverina Dairy is the largest Australian-owned producer of fetta and haloumi and uses milk from its Corowa dairy. 

Mr Beaurain said Australia and New Zealand had developed quality cheeses on par with Europe during the past 30 years.

“New Zealand has more of a Dutch Edam heritage while Australia had more a Swiss style because of the differences in immigration 30 years ago,” he said.

The Riverina Dairy’s chief cheese maker for the past seven years, Andy Engwerda, officially retires in August. 

“Andy has had a tremendous impact on the organisation and leaves behind a legacy of cheeses that are highly regarded across the retail, food service and ethnic communities,” Ms Sweetland said.