A natural bush medicine that has been used by the Australian Aboriginal people for thousands of years, Emu Oil is referred to as the “sacred oil”. Founded in 1996, Emu Tracks Pure Emu Oil provides an improved quality of life for those suffering from skin issues, arthritis or chronic inflammatory muscle/joint problems. It is 100% natural with no added preservatives, and a natural alternative to drugs and artificial treatments. Given the versatility and effectiveness of this powerful and natural remedy, their focus is on delivering the highest quality Emu Oil products throughout the world. Here, Managing Director Chris Gregory talks to The Natural Parent Magazine about the inspiration behind the business, the challenges they have overcome along the way, and his hopes and dreams for the future.
The passion: What inspired you to set up your business?
Around 1990, I stumbled upon the incredible benefits of Emu Oil, while hearing about the emergence of a new industry – emu farming. Growing up around health food stores with my family, I was already familiar with natural products. Given my history of musculoskeletal injuries from years of sports involvement, the anti-inflammatory benefits of Emu Oil immediately caught my attention.
After personally benefiting from the wonders of this natural ingredient, I delved deeper into the enhanced quality of life that Emu Oil can bring. Eager to share these powerful advantages, I became passionate about introducing others to the incredible benefits of this ancient Australian bush remedy. Used by the Australian indigenous people for thousands of years, Emu Oil has been a traditional medicine for treating burns, scarring, insect bites, skin issues, muscle/joint pain and much more.
Just think about it – roughly 25% of the population deals with skin issues like dermatitis, eczema, sensitivity, or psoriasis. Similarly, around 25% grapple with arthritis or chronic inflammatory muscle/joint problems. That’s a significant chunk of folks out there searching for an improved quality of life. Recognising the potential of such a versatile Australian product that can bring relief to so many, I was inspired to create Emu Tracks as a natural alternative to the drugs and artificial treatments often recommended.
The launch: How did you start out in the beginning?
Emu Tracks was founded in Adelaide in 1996. As emu oil was unknown in the consumer marketplace at this time, we set about the task of introducing and educating the public. Over a ten-year period, Emu Tracks exhibited at over 180 shows, field days, fairs and exhibitions throughout the country, speaking to many thousands of people that were on a journey to find a product to assist them with their particular ailment. Of course, most of these people had experienced the pharmaceutical options available and welcomed the opportunity of a more natural solution. As people discovered for themselves what Emu Oil could offer, the reputation and subsequent sales started to flow.
While starting as a small local business, over the years, the popularity has spread and Emu Tracks expanded its presence into international markets, including Europe, US, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Korea, and China.
The innovation: What was the biggest breakthrough for you with your business?
As an industry, it was imperative that the Australian emu industry demonstrates to the consumers – through research – the variety of benefits that Emu Oil offers. As I had been involved in the administration of the industry right from the beginning, I was particularly interested in this aspect.
I have held the role of President of the Emu Industry Federation of Australia since 2007 and have facilitated the majority of the Emu Oil research in Australia over the last 20 years, being involved in more than 15 different research projects. On each occasion, we have clearly established Emu Oil to be a powerful and versatile natural anti-inflammatory.
Emu Tracks Emu Oil has been the Emu Oil standard used in most of the research projects due to it consistently demonstrating a high level of therapeutic activity.
Following this research, Emu Tracks gained recognition as the world’s leading specialist manufacturer of Emu Oil products. This achievement was a testament to the company’s dedication to delivering the highest quality Emu Oil products. Emu Tracks stands out as the Emu Oil Expert, maintaining quality and control over the entire process of rendering, formulation, and manufacture.
Yin and Yang: How do you balance work and family?
Balancing my commitment to business growth, I also understand the importance of taking breaks. Fuelled by love for blues music, architecture, and travel, I make it a point to embark on a yearly music adventure to places like the USA, Europe, or Asia. This year, I explored Turkey and hopped on a music cruise in the Mediterranean. Throughout the year, you can catch me cheering on a footy game, immersing myself in live-music events, or just spending quality time with my family.
