International Coffee Day is October 1. It’s a celebration of coffee and to pay tribute to the millions of people worldwide – from farmers, to roasters, baristas, coffee shop owners and more – who work so hard to produce and serve us with the beverage we all love.

And love coffee we do. It’s been estimated 3 billion cups are consumed every day with that number continuing to rise.

But where did our passion for coffee originate?

Historians say our coffee culture developed as a result of Greek and Italian migrants from the post-war immigration boom in the 1950s and onwards. They introduced us to a range of coffee varieties when they started café businesses to share their love of homeland brews.

It’s not likely coffee originated from the arrival of Europeans in the late 1700s as they brought tea with them. And there is no documented evidence that Aborigines consumed coffee, rather they enjoyed billy tea made with water and honey or sugar.

Whilst International Coffee Day is a time for celebration, it is also a time to focus on how to improve coffee’s future.

Despite growing demand, coffee faces a dramatic issue. With a current surplus of coffee in the market, and increased costs of production, coffee farmers around the world are struggling to earn a fair income.

This International Coffee Day raise your mug in celebration of our much-loved beverage and consider the plight of the coffee journey before your favourite cuppa hits your reusable cup at your favourite cafe. Visit www.internationalcoffeeday.org to show your support.