From the Chair

BY OWEN MENKENS, Chair, CANEGROWERS

Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting Bundaberg for the annual Bundaberg Sugar Industry Dinner.

This event showcases the Bundaberg industry as well as presenting productivity awards to growers, contractors, mill workers and members of the community for the 2024 season.

It’s run by Bundaberg Sugar Dinner and Awards Committee with help from the staff at Bundaberg CANEGROWERS

The event saw a great turnout of growers and community members, with local State members Stephen Bennett and Tom Smith, along with Bundaberg Mayor Helen Blackburn, in attendance. ABC Country Hour presenter Kalle Buchanan hosted the evening, which served as a celebration of 2024 — a strong production year for growers.

The mill performance was also exceptional with reliability up over 95% which I think would make growers in other districts very envious.

The Bundaberg district has had many challenges over the last 20 years with competition from macadamias and small crops leading to a big reduction in cane growing area. This has led to mill closures which obviously is a disappointing outcome for the growing community.

There is a resurgence in area under cane this year as well as a higher estimated tonnage for the crush which is positive news for the district. Growers are optimistic about the future, buoyed by current prices. The global outlook for the next three years remains positive, with prices holding above $600 per tonne and the possibility of a deficit next year raising hopes for even stronger returns.

I think one of the most impressive things in the Bundaberg region is the close relationship between growers and their miller Bundaberg Sugar. Obviously, there are still disagreements, but overall there is a transparent relationship which enables discussion. It is an example of when growers and millers trust each other there is an opportunity to grow the pie for all.

Transparency is fundamental to our relationship with millers as it is the bedrock of our industry. All districts have a different way of achieving this but without trust the industry suffers. The secret to solving many industry issues –be they bin delivery, mill performance, or marketing –is transparency and communication. If we are going to keep growing as an industry, we need to have a clear exchange of opinions with millers so grower concerns can be properly addressed.

Finally, I look forward to catching up with you all at Sugar Cubed in April. The conference will showcase cutting-edge advancements in sustainable sugarcane farming and production, offering valuable insights into market trends, emerging technologies, and policy changes. Growers will have the chance to chat with industry experts, exchange ideas, and network with other growers from around the State. With interactive workshops, dynamic field trips and a chance to check out the ASSCT trade display, Sugar Cubed 2025 promises practical solutions and inspiration to enhance your business.

Don’t miss this invaluable opportunity to stay competitive in the evolving sugarcane landscape, to register simply visit www.sugarcubed.com.au.