The first inhabitants of the area were the Gubbi Gubbi, also known as Kabi Kabi, people.

In 1863 The Miller Brothers, while developing a timber mill, accidentally discovered coal on the banks of the Burrum River changing the course of the area forever. The townships of Burrum Town, Howard and Torbanlea were rapidly developed and with the arrival of more settlers so was the need for essential services such as stores, schools, hotels and churches.

The original general store in Howard was established in 1884 by White Brothers who also had stores in Maryborough and Biggenden. Mr John Hughes Van Cooten had ties to the White Brothers and worked with them during these early years. Even at this time the core business was that of groceries, hardware and stockfeed merchants. In 1899 Fenwick White entered into a business partnership with John Hughes VanCooten.

This partnership was dissolved in 1904 and then restablished in 1912.

In 1917 John H. VanCooten purchased the Howard business after the death of Fenwick White. He then formed a partnership with his sons, William & Alexander Ernest. The store was renamed VanCooten & Sons. Alexander VanCooten succeeded as the proprietor of VanCooten & Sons after the death of his father in 1925.

VanCooten & Sons Pty Ltd was registered in 1933. Seven shareholders, all employees, made up the company: A. VanCooten, V. Buffey, W.Barker, C. Whitby, F. Pollard, L. Jones, E. Hodges.

In 1952 a new store was built, a few blocks down from the old in Steley Street. This is the building we trade from today.

Over time Mr Charles Whitby became the major shareholder of the business and passed it on to his son Trevor who had worked in the business since a young age. Trevor was the director of VanCootens & Sons up until his death in 2021.

In 2023 history repeated when long term employees, the Chew family bought the business. Today we trade simply as VanCootens.

The longevity of Vancootens is a testament to its exceptional service and ability to adapt to changing times while staying true to its values. It is a hub where neighbors connect, and relationships are built. Vancootens takes pride in being a community anchor, supporting local initiatives and giving back to the people who have supported them for generations.

As Vancootens continues to thrive, it carries forward its heritage lineage, ensuring that future generations will experience the same level of dedication and care that has made it a local household name for so many people across so many decades.