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NEWS BRIEFS
NFF TOOK THE MESSAGE TO CANBERRA AND HERE IS WHY
Thousands of farmers and supporters from across Australia came together to send a clear message to the nation’s leaders –farmers need a seat at the table when it comes to agricultural policy.
President of the National Farmers’ Federation, David Jochinke, said he is immensely proud of the turnout and impact the National Farmer Rally had in Canberra on 10 September.
“For too long, decisions have been made without adequate consultation with those who understand the land best – the farmers who work it every day,” Mr Jochinke said.
“We highlighted critical issues facing our industry, from the proposed ban on live sheep exports to water buybacks in the Murray Darling Basin, and called for practical solutions on matters like the Diesel Fuel Rebate and unnecessary red tape around emissions reporting.
“This rally wasn’t about politics; it was about policy. We want forward-thinking solutions that will allow Australian agriculture to thrive, not ideological battles driven by out-of-touch activists and detractors who would like to see less food and fibre grown in Australia.”
AUSTRALIA’S 3G NETWORK IS SHUTTING DOWN
3G mobile services are coming to an end. All 3G devices will be affected, not just phones. Telstra and Optus plan to switch off from 28 October 2024.
Farming probes, sensors, and cameras used for monitoring and watering may have been set up using 3G.
Primary producers need to make sure farm equipment is not linked to a 3G service.
To understand how this impacts on you go to regionaltechhub.org.au/what-doesthe-3g-shutdown-mean-for-me
CANEGROWERS AGM TO BE HELD IN THE REGIONS – FOR THE FIRST TIME
On Thursday 7 November CANEGROWERS will hold the 2024 Annual General Meeting at the Mecure Townsville at 4pm.
Members are invited to come along and hear CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens and CEO Dan Galligan present the latest activities within the sugarcane industry and provide updates on the projects and initiatives that CANEGROWERS has undertaken for its members during the last 12 months.
Following the conclusion of the meeting, members are welcome to stay and chat with their elected representatives of the Policy Council while enjoying a cool beverage.
An official notice of meeting will be emailed to all members shortly so keep an eye out on your inbox. This email will include details as to how to register to attend and obtain the official documentation.
We look forward to seeing you there.
IT’S
TIME TO PULL TOGETHER – LET’S CRUSH IT!
Following the resolution of the long-running industrial pay dispute between Wilmar Sugar and the three unions representing mill workers, CANEGROWERS has urged the sugarcane industry to pull together and get on with the job at hand.
Workers at Wilmar Sugar’s nine mills voted to accept a new Enterprise Agreement put forward by the company on Friday 13 September and CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said it’s great to have this issue finally resolved and in a way that is acceptable to both the workers and the mill.
“It has dragged on for far too long, with the growers stuck in the middle, due to no fault of their own,” Mr Menkens said.
CANEGROWERS has been instrumental in trying to bring the two warring parties, Wilmar and the unions, together to seek a responsible solution for the industry.
“We took strong action,” Mr Menkens explained.
“Our representatives met several times with Wilmar and the unions’ senior officials and called on them to apply to the Fair Work Commission to commence an arbitration process so that the strikes could stop, and a deal could be struck.
“We have repeatedly said that workers deserve to be represented and to achieve a fair pay deal, but milling companies must also be financially viable. We have not taken sides but remained neutral in the hope of seeking a resolution.
“But it has taken too long, and the toll on this year’s season impacts not only our industry but our local communities as well, the dispute has delayed cane crushing across half the industry.
“The rolling stoppages at Wilmar mills, which crush about fifty percent of Queensland’s sugarcane, has cost growers and contractors dearly, not just financially but also in terms of their stress and anxiety about this year’s length of season.
“Despite this it is now time to put it behind us, and for the entire industry to come together, support our mill workers and our contractors, and put our shoulders to the wheel so we can make the 2024 season a success.
“Let’s crush it between now and December.”
LIGHTING THE WAY
BY RENEE CLUFF
An expansion of the Tableland Sugar Mill is enabling growers to put more land under cane.
Sugarcane growers in the Tableland District are praising the decision by MSF Sugar to increase crushing capacity at the local mill.
A $13-million investment has been announced by the Thai-owned milling company to increase capacity by 150,000-tonnes to 1-million-tonnes, or almost 18%.
Works are scheduled for completion ahead of the 2025 harvest season.
CANEGROWERS Tableland Chair Claude Santucci said the upgrades are needed to meet grower demand.
“With new cane lands coming into production on the southern Tablelands as well as existing growers bringing
their CPAs (cane production areas) to full capacity due to the buoyant sugar prices in recent years, Tableland Mill has reached capacity,” he explained.
“This has been acknowledged by the growers and MSF Sugar as being of concern and requiring investment in milling capacity to ensure that an increased crop size can be processed efficiently and effectively.
“This investment by MSF Sugar gives growers great confidence for them to continue and for some, to expand their cane growing operations, knowing that there will be reliable crushing capacity to handle the larger crop in a timely manner.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Mitr Phol Board in taking this investment decision, which demonstrates their strong commitment to the Tablelands District.”
It’s the first major investment at the Arriga site since construction of the $100-million Green Energy Power Plant, which was commissioned in 2018.
The works will include upgrades to the milling train, juice and syrup processing and cooling water systems.
Factory Manager Peter Chohan said the expansion was greenlighted in response to increasing requests from growers.
“We field a lot of enquiries from growers about our capacity to handle more cane,” he said. “We’re very happy that this investment will see us able to process some 1,600 hectares of new plantings over the 9,000 hectares currently under cane.”
The mill expansion works will begin in the new year, with completion expected by May.
Mr Santucci said it’s now up to growers to ensure the investment pays off for the local and broader industry.
“This investment is in contrast to what we are seeing in other milling districts throughout Queensland where some milling companies are facing significant challenges in maintaining reliable crushing operations,” he said.
“We now as growers have to demonstrate our commitment and maximise our efforts to grow the best crop we can so as to sustain this investment.”
CANEGROWERS Tablelands
Chair Claude Santucci
Cane crushing capacity is increasing at Tableland Sugar Mill (Credit: MSF Sugar)
NOT ALL CHEMICAL TRAINING COURSES COMPLY WITH THE REGULATION IF YOU ARE GROWING SUGARCANE
BY KATE REARDON
In the past few months, I have fielded numerous questions about the suitability of chemical training courses for growers working towards their Smartcane BMP accreditation.
In 2020, chemical regulations across the country were aligned, 12 months later in 2021, further changes relevant to sugarcane growers were made. With all these updates, there is confusion about the chemical training courses offered by registered training organisations (RTOs) and what growers need to comply with regulations and Smartcane BMP certification.
To meet the obligations of the Chemical Usage (Agricultural and Veterinary) Control Regulation 2017 growers in the Wet Tropics, Burdekin and Mackay-Whitsunday catchments intending to apply or supervise the application of Ametryn, Atrazine, Diuron, Hexazinone and Tebuthiuron to sugarcane crops using ground equipment must hold a statement of attainment issued by an RTO stating that the person has completed the following competencies:
a. AHCPMG301 – Control weeds;
b. AHCCHM304 – Transport and store chemicals;
c. AHCCHM307 – Prepare and apply chemicals to control pests, weeds and diseases
This is the requirement for Smartcane BMP accreditation, regardless of where you are located.
The issue being created is training companies (RTOs) only offer two units of competency (AHCCHM304, AHCCHM307) because non-sugarcane growers do not require the third unit (AHCPMG301) of competency.
If you only have completed the two units of competency, an alternative way of complying with the regulation is to acquire a Commercial Operators License (COL). This license expires after three years and costs around $90.
It is important not to become complacent. Once chemical training has been completed, it is responsible practice to stay up to date with regulation changes and always apply best practices when applying chemicals.
Local productivity services and district cane offices host regular workshops and field days to support growers in being informed about chemicals and associated regulations.
In summary, to meet the Chemical Usage regulation and Smartcane BMP certification growers need to have one of these options:
A statement of attainment issued by an RTO in all 3 units
a. AHCPMG301 –Control weeds;
b. AHCCHM304 – Transport and store chemicals;
c. AHCCHM307 – Prepare and apply chemicals to control pests, weeds and diseases OR
A statement of attainment issued by an RTO for 2 units + Current Commercial Operators License.
a. AHCCHM304 – Transport and store chemicals;
CANEGROWERS delivers the Smartcane BMP project (2022-2026) with funding from the Queensland Government’s Reef Water Quality Program and CANEGROWERS
b. AHCCHM307 – Prepare and apply chemicals to control pests, weeds and diseases
c. Current Commercial Operators License
COLLABORATION BRINGS ABOUT A NATIONAL STRATEGY TO SUPPORT GROWERS
BY DAN GALLIGAN, CEO, CANEGROWERS
No doubt about it – its grand final time. Whatever your code and whatever your passion this time of year either sees you checking out in despair at your team’s performance or being at fever pitch looking for what can be a rare premiership.
Not many people would put politics up their as their “code” but there are connotations of tribalism and sometimes even teams within the political parties. However it cannot be denied, elections really are the grand final moment for political parties. For the majors, the minors and the independents it is their opportunity to shine and gain important power and leverage in parliament, although unlike sporting teams, they only get this chance every four years.
Elections should be a competition of ideas, policies and priorities. It's tricky in Queensland with a unicameral parliamentary system it is pretty much “winner takes all” with the concept of sitting in opposition being pretty daunting. The stakes are high for the LNP, Labor, Katter and Greens as they try and strike a balance that reflects the priorities of the regions and the cities at the same time.
State election campaigns in Queensland are absolutely pivotal from an agricultural perspective policies, programs and priorities of state government can impact significantly on the future prospects of farmers.
From investment in research and development, biosecurity, regional planning, water and electricity prices, environmental regulations and investments and state priorities on renewable energy and fuels. The State Government literally has the hands on the levers that can either enable or inhibit the future profitability of farmers. Far more directly than a federal government can.
The work of relationship building, advocacy and influence that CANEGROWERS has been undertaking in order to have impact on political parties has been ongoing literally since the last election.
But it is grand final time.
Now is the chance for us to run the ruler over the political parties and see who can express a vision and plan for Queensland agriculture. As much as anything it is a time
for us to determine who of our political leaders has been listening to us over the last four years and to assess whether they can actually deliver on our plans and specific actions.
Regional communities and in particular farmers are absolutely tuned in to this election. Local, regional candidates have to work exceedingly hard to not only get around their electorates but deliver.
CANEGROWERS has put together a very specific but positive election platform. We have made sure they know about its content, our priorities and it is now up to them to commit to it.
The pathway for success is actually pretty simple, politicians should look at what the industry is saying, take note, listen and take on board our concerns as they have been crafted from the ground up. These are the issues growers care about.
Just as the work of advocacy started four years ago, CANEGROWERS is already primed to work with an incoming government to make sure they deliver for our industry.
QSL GROWER PRICING UPDATE
Sugar Market & Currency
Your Trusted Partner
Current as of 19 September 2024.
By Elliott Apel, QSL Assistant Manager Trading & Risk
Influence Commentary Outlook
Brazil
India
Thailand
Speculators
Currency
Centre South Brazil had harvested 422 million tonnes of cane and produced 27 million tonnes of sugar as of 1 September, taking the season into the final third of crushing operations. The sugar mix remained disappointing, averaging 49.15% for the season and continued to fall rapidly. An outbreak of fires through Sao Paulo affected up to 230,000 hectares of cane, of which 130,000 hectares were yet to be harvested. The combination of these factors points to a possible deterioration of production as we approach the end of the harvest.
The Indian monsoon is due to retreat slightly later than normal in late September to conclude a prosperous wet season that has delivered 8% more rain than the average. The Indian Department for Food and Public Distribution has lifted the ban on ethanol production from molasses and cane juice for the upcoming season. The ethanol price has not yet been announced, making it difficult to predict the amount of sugar equivalent that could be diverted to ethanol production, however, initial expectations are for between 3-4.5 million tonnes of sugar equivalent. Neutral
Rainfall in Thailand has been positive and has kept pace with long-term averages. Crop forecasts are being noted between 90-100 million tonnes of cane resulting in an estimated 10-11 million tonnes of sugar, although many have flagged potential upside to these numbers.
After continuing to favour a net short position through August and the first half of September, the outlook for a possible deficit of raw sugar in the first quarter of 2025 has convinced speculators to buy back their positions and push to a net long position of 2580 as of 17 September.
September was another volatile month for the AUD trading through a 2-US cent range. The low of nearly 66 US cents was off the back of fears the US economy was heading for recession due to interest rates being held too high for too long. Following the low, the AUD recovered strongly as the US Federal Reserve surprised the market by announcing a 50-basis point interest rate cut to begin their monetary policy easing cycle, reducing the cash rate down to 4.75-5.0%.
The outlook ratings above are in relation to AUD/tonne sugar prices. A bullish outlook is considered positive. A bearish outlook is considered negative.
Grower Pricing Update
The highest grower-managed pricing levels achieved across all growing regions using QSL products to date (all gross price actual/tonne) are:
• 2024 Target Price = $840 / IFC $870 (Jul24)
• 2025 Target Price = $735 / IFC $735 (Oct25)
• 2026 Target Price = $685 / IFC $690 (Jul26)
• 2027 Target Price = $650
• 2028 Target Price = $550
Key Dates 2024:
• 31 October | Last day for growers to nominate QSL as their GEI Sugar marketer for the 2025 Season.
• 30 November | Last day for growers to nominate to QSL’s 2024-Season Accelerated Advances program.
SRA NEWS BITES
SRA brings you the latest updates on activities that drive productivity and efficiency in sugarcane farming from guidance on soil sampling methods to help optimise nutrient management, to cuttingedge research shaping the future of sugarcane breeding.
Learn about the new ARC Training Centre in Predictive Breeding, where SRA researchers are training the next generation of plant breeders, and work being done in conjunction with high school students at demonstration sites across the Mackay district.
For more resources visit sugarresearch.com.au
Soil sampling made easier
Soil sampling is a critical activity for nutrient management and will save growers money on unnecessary inputs and boost crop production.
To set yourself up for success this season, SRA in collaboration with the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) has produced guidance on soil sampling in a new fact sheet.
Access the fact sheet
Training the next generation of sugarcane breeders
SRA’s Variety Development team staff are progressing important sugarcane research work as part of the new ARC Training Centre in Predictive Breeding for Agricultural Futures, set up in August to train new plant and animal breeders in agriculture.
Northern Variety Officer Andrew Rigby will be working on a PhD project using genomics to predict the performance of sugarcane parents and cross combinations. Central Variety Officer Chris Tom (above) will be focusing in his PhD research on expanding existing initiatives on developing nematode-
resistant sugarcane. They will both be supported by new Industry Research Fellow, Dr Sijesh Natarajan, who was recently appointed SRA's Breeding Technology Lead.
The Centre will also develop and deliver plant breeding training modules to support the professional development of SRA technical staff.
Read more about ARC in Cane Matters (pages 30-31)
Student collaboration at demo sites
SRA Central Station staff were grateful for the assistance of about 20 high school students who are undertaking a Certificate 1 in Rural Operations (horticultural major) at Sarina State High School. The students helped pot out oneeyed setts (above) as step one in setting up demonstration sites on challenging soils – heavy cracking clays and sodic soils – in the Central District.
The sites will compare the performance of two promising varieties with a released standard.
New
small milling projects focus on efficiency
Four new small milling projects have been announced for 2024/25, funded under SRA’s Small Milling Research Projects investment scheme.
Projects this year focus on reducing sucrose losses and controlling corrosion in evaporators; investigating a method to increase automation in the factory; investigating ways to best manage greenhouse gas emissions from sugar factory boilers; and researching ways to lessen the time taken to turn mill mud into green garden fertiliser as an alternative income stream.
Planting for disease screening
Planting season is underway at Woodford, SRA's Pathology Station. The cane seedlings that have been growing in Woodford’s glasshouses and on outside benches are now ready to be planted in the field.
The seedlings are being planted to be screened for resistance to diseases, an important step in the development of new varieties.
Source and more images: Sarina State High School Facebook post, 13 September 2024
Processes like this one monitoring sugar crystals could be automated in future
FROM THE CHAIR
BY OWEN MENKENS, Chairman, CANEGROWERS
It was a great relief at the time of writing to see a significant rally in the world sugar price.
Many analysts had been predicting it to come, but as we know often happens in our industry you never really know what is going to happen and by when.
The rally was brought about by speculators reacting to news out of Brazil of less sugar production than predicted. This was mainly due to drier than average conditions over there.
Let’s not kid ourselves though, the Brazil crop is still massive, its 20 times as big as ours.
Thailand has increased its exports this year, however Brazil still accounts for over 70% of the world exports. Their season is very similar to ours so many analysts are suggesting that there will be a world shortage of sugar in the first half of next year. There is also a belief that the Brazil crop will not be as good next year which means we could be looking at a deficit for the 24/25 year. This is good news for growers and should provide some certainty for the months ahead.
As big as Brazil is, it is still only a small part of the world consumption of sugar. Consumption is still growing at the rate of over half the Australian sugar industry or 2 million tonnes every year. Sugar is produced mainly for domestic consumption in most countries. Unfortunately, most of this production is subsidised heavily, however under international trade rules these countries like the EU and India are not allowed to export even if they do produce more than their domestic needs. Many of these countries have large domestic consumption and consequently are very large producers of sugar. India produces 30 million tonnes of sugar, the EU 16 million tonnes, Thailand 10 million tonnes, China 10 million
tonnes, US 8 million tonnes and you can throw in Russia and Pakistan who produce 7 million each. The movements in production of all these countries all affect the world price, consequently any long-term prediction of price levels is a dangerous game which many traders have failed at.
I have discussions with most of the growers from these countries at the World Association of Beet and Cane Growers (WABCG) conferences every year. Most of the cane producers are paid a flat rate per tonne of cane irrespective of sugar content and the mills then sell on the market at something reflective of the world price. An increase in the world price does not always come through to the growers in the same year as it does with our marketing choice system. The mills usually only pay a higher price for cane or beet in the year after the world market increases to try to encourage the farmers to grow more. This creates a lag effect on the world market which can lead to large distortions in deficits and surpluses. The sugar market is a very complex beast and I for one don’t make any predictions going forward.
Before I finish, I would like to note the passing of Paul Sgarbossa who was a director on many boards including BSES from 2006 to 2012. Paul was state chairman of the cane grub steering committee and was instrumental in the approvals of new grub control products.
I also would like to note the Queensland Cane Growers Organsation ( CANEGROWERS ) AGM will be held in Townsville in November for the first time and I look forward to catching up with as many of you as I can.
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GENERATIONAL SUCCESS
SUPPORT AND KNOWLEDGE
PAVE WAY FOR SMOOTH SUCCESSION
BY RENEE CLUFF
A thriving passion for sugarcane farming alongside a newfound camaraderie with likeminded colleagues is proving productive for a young Herbert River district grower.
Alex Pisano never planned to follow in the footsteps of his father and grandfather on the family sugarcane farm east of Ingham. After finishing school, he instead pursued an electrical trade, and as a qualified electrician he spent many years working on either side of Australia. After stints at mine sites in remote Western Australia came the realisation that the grass was greener (both literally and metaphorically) back at the farm.
“I had to get out and learn how much I actually liked sugarcane farming before I came back and pursued it,” Alex told Australian Canegrower
“I’ve been farming full time for about eight or nine years now with Dad and being heavily involved in the decisionmaking and problem solving. As I get
older, I enjoy it more and more. I love it and there’s nothing else I’d rather be doing.”
Through life experience, the 35-yearold has gained an understanding and appreciation of the pros and cons of self-employment versus a salaried occupation. He still works as an electrician over the wet season and while he’s the first to concede sugarcane farming is not necessarily the easier option, the fulfillment it brings is a major factor in his choice to pursue a career in the family business.
“You know what you’re getting paid when you are employed by someone and it’s usually quite good, whereas in farming you don’t know what you’re getting paid,” Alex said. “If you’ve got a problem as an employee, you’ve got a workmate or a supervisor or a book that’s going to explain everything and if you want to take a gamble on a job it might mean either saving or wasting half an hour. On the farm, everything is a gamble, and you’ll spend the whole day wondering if you’re doing the right thing because the decisions you make as a farmer are big, potentially expensive decisions.
“But when things work out, it makes it sweeter”
Right: A laser leveller is the most newly acquired piece of machinery in Alex Pisano’s machinery shed
Below: Alex is succeeding his father Michael on the family farm at Braemeadows, near Ingham
Along with job satisfaction, Alex rates working with family and being his own boss among the pros of farming sugarcane. He’s found kindred spirits who share this philosophy through the CANEGROWERS Herbert River Young Grower Group.
“There are a lot of fellas like me –the sort of fellas who love the industry and who are keen and we get together,” Alex explained. “We have a branch at CANEGROWERS Herbert River just
for us and it’s a comfortable place. If we’ve got any issues, we can talk about them. It’s a good place to be.”
Among the challenges he says concern young growers are succession plans, and in particular the affordability of buying out the shares of siblings who aren’t interested in farming.
The costs of inputs, machinery and harvesting also rate highly.
“The confidence to get through it together is something we have in the Herbert,” Alex said. “We knew of each other beforehand, but since developing this group we now have the comfort to turn around and say, ‘Hey mate, have you ever come across this before?’ Or ‘Are you struggling with that? Well, I did this the other week, do you need a hand?’ It’s a relief to have people like that.
“It works to bridge that big gap; you work with your father for so long and then they retire or pass away and you’re in this big gamble and you’ve got no-one to turn to. Having that group is excellent.”
Alex’s father, Michael, remains on the farm but has been stepping back into retirement over the past few years. He’s a Director of Herbert Cane Productivity Services Limited (HCPSL) and is also a former Chair of CANEGROWERS Herbert River.
Michael is full of praise for the young growers initiative.
“It’s the best thing to come out of the industry recently,” Michael declared. “I think it’s absolutely brilliant and it should be spread right through the industry.
"When I see Alex and these guys, they’re talking all the time, and they have a group messaging system on social media so when one comments the whole group is involved. They have close ties with the industry and meet with different industry representatives, such as CANEGROWERS , the productivity board and SRA’s (Sugar Research Australia’s District Manager for the northern region) Phil Patane, who is the same age and who they will all miss when he takes up his new post overseas.”
Alex also appreciates how fortunate he is to have his father’s wisdom, knowledge and support. “It would be a lot more stressful without Dad,” he conceded. “It’s a massive help and he understands the gamble as well as anyone.”
Michael explains the essence of the farming gamble through an anecdote about his own father, Michele.
“My father used to say that being a successful farmer was 50% good weather, 50% luck and the rest was skill”
“It’s a lot like that,” he laughed. “You plant a crop, hoping the weather will be good, that you’ll get a germination. You hope that your investment in the fertiliser works out, that you don’t get a cyclone destroy
Sugarcane has been grown on the property since the 1950s
The Herbert River Young Grower Group pictured with Queensland Cane Growers Organisation representatives and CANEGROWERS Herbert River staff during a recent trip to Brisbane
half of it. Then you hope that you can harvest it, that the price will be okay. With forward pricing, it’s a little better, you know what you will be paid per tonnes of sugar, but you still don’t know what tonnage you’ll have.”
Michael’s father migrated to Australia from Italy in the 1930s and initially worked as a cane cutter and truck driver in Innisfail. Michele Pisano become an Australian citizen soon after arriving in his new homeland and as many of his Italian counterparts were being interned during World War II, he was instead conscripted to fight with the Australian Armed Forces. One of his brothers was in the Italian Royal Army and a third brother was in the United States Armed Forces.
“Three brothers were fighting in three different armies, with two brothers fighting against the other brother,” Michael marvelled. “It was an interesting life for families during that time. But Dad made his life in Australia, and he was Australian from the get-go. He had no desire to return to Italy.”
Upon his arrival home after the war, Michele was successful in applying for an allotted parcel of land in Braemeadows under the Returned Soldier Settlement Scheme. The land was challenging, featuring very
heavy clays and low-lying blocks with drainage issues. Since then, the entire farm has been laser levelled to deal with surface drainage, a practice that is ongoing. The business has also undergone an expansion through the purchase of neighbouring farms. Today, Alex manages 220 acres under cane. He’s a top producer in his productivity zone and last season won the HCPSL award for Young Grower of the Year.
“I follow our nutrient management plan quite strictly,” he said. “We’ve been following a formal N and P budget since 2014 as the first growers to be accredited under the Smartcane BMP program. I fallow a good portion of ground every year and spend a lot of time reading data that’s provided by SRA on new varieties. I spend the time and keep a close eye on things.”
He said 2024 has been a particularly challenging year due to unrelenting wet weather that began last December.
“In a farm like ours, once you have a wet year it puts a stress on managing the harvesting plan,” Alex said. “It forces you to steer away from cutting blocks that are sweet in favour of the dry blocks. That becomes your priority over chasing the sweeter cane.
“It was late August by the time we got to drive a tractor on paddocks we needed to plant. The late plant meant some of our clean seed varieties were too mature for us to have confidence they would germinate well, so we had to walk away from that. Weed control has also been more difficult. The constant rain, cloudy skies and lack of radiation affected the crop as well.”
However, as he prepares to settle into his newly renovated farmhouse with his wife Tyrelle and their two-year-old daughter Frankie, Alex is optimistic about the future.
“I grew up in the same house we’re moving into, when my grandparents were in what is now Mum and Dad’s house next door,” he said. “I got to run over to see them all the time. I’m hoping my daughter will do the same thing. It’s a great place to grow up.
“I think there’ll be more challenging years ahead but it’s a job that you do because you love it. I love the challenge of making the farm more productive, seeing what I can do better, preparing for the future. It’s a passion for me. I just really like growing cane.”
Alex Pisano and his father Michael keep a close eye on the crop
AD BLITZ CALLS FOR STRONG ACTION
In the lead-up to this year’s state election, CANEGROWERS has been shining a spotlight on the vital role the sugarcane industry plays in Queensland’s economy and the future of renewable energy.
Across the cane-growing regions, eye-catching billboards have been reminding locals just how crucial this industry is to keeping regional economies thriving. But the campaign doesn’t stop there. It’s gone statewide with a powerful digital and radio message that calls on the government to take action – not just to support the industry, but to seize the massive opportunity to turn sugarcane into the backbone of a new, homegrown biofuels sector.
And even in the heart of Brisbane, CANEGROWERS has been making sure urban voters hear our message loud and clear. With strategically placed outdoor ads, we’re spreading the word that a strong future for Queensland lies in harnessing the power of cane to fuel the biofuels revolution.
The question now is: Will the government get on board?
WITH A FUTURE IN SUSTAINABLE
THIS STATE ELECTION…
THE FUTURE IS IN THE
STALKS, NOT NEVER-ENDING TALKS
As Queenslanders we stand at a pivotal moment – a rare opportunity to build a transformative new industry in our state. This is our chance to create thousands of jobs in our regions and inject billions into our state and local economies, while building on our already vibrant sugarcane industry.
Just as we harnessed the mining boom and embraced tourism, we now have a once-in-a-generation opportunity before us. But it’s crucial that our government fully supports this vision as it unfolds.
As the state election approaches, CANEGROWERS is calling on all Queenslanders to lend their voice to the growing demand for the development of a sustainable biofuels industry.
A new industry that, if we work together, can sit side by side with our successful sugar industry.
Together, we can ignite a movement that will shape our future for the better.
Every election cycle, CANEGROWERS champions better outcomes for growers, but this time feels different. While we continue to push for lower input costs, reduced red tape and regulations, improved funding for research and development, and more, we also have a bold, transformative vision that can redefine our economy and protect our environment.
Imagine a future where thousands of jobs thrive in regional Queensland, where billions flow into local economies, and where we lead the way in sustainable aviation fuel.
This isn’t just a dream – it’s within our grasp if we commit to building a biofuels industry that uses sugarcane as its primary feedstock.
While countries like India and Brazil are racing ahead in establishing sustainable aviation fuel industries, we cannot afford to fall behind.
For the first time in our history, there’s a genuine desire among Australian airlines, private investors, and our government to invest in this future. Yet, so far, we’ve only seen words and minimal investment.
Now is the time to take decisive action!
We’re urging all political parties to recognise that the future is in the stalks – not in never-ending talks.
CANEGROWERS has developed an eight-point plan that will help achieve this goal, while also driving down costs and improving productivity and profitability.
In the following pages you will find a snapshoot of this plan, and the response to this plan from the political parties vying to lead the state.
Let’s build on our existing successful sugar industry with a new industry that generates jobs and addresses the urgent challenge to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
If you believe in this vision for a prosperous Queensland, please join us! Visit growthforgenerations.com.au and make your voice heard. Together, we can call on our politicians to commit to a vibrant biofuels industry that benefits our regions, our state, and our planet.
Let’s seize this opportunity and shape a brighter future for all!
LOWER COSTS, LESS RED TAPE, MORE BIOFUELS
CANEGROWERS eight-point plan to boost Queensland's sugarcane industry this state election
REDUCE THE COST OF POWER AND WATER
Farmers' power bills have risen 130% since 2006-07. Irrigators were excluded from recent price reductions for small business and households.
High water and electricity costs discourage irrigation and constrain productivity which affects regional economies, mill viability, and competitiveness.
ACTIONS
‣ Direct Energy Queensland to reduce electricity prices for agriculture by at least 40%, capped at 16c/kWh.
‣ Establish regional competition between energy retailers
‣ Ensure any Community Service Obligation payments are directed to Ergon Network and not Ergon Retail.
‣ Support and fund the development of micro-grids
‣ A 15-25% reduction on current water tariffs for sugarcane irrigators.
A SMARTER APPROACH TO WATER QUALITY
Significant changes in sugarcane farming practices over the past 20 years have improved the quality of water in catchments flowing into the Great Barrier Reef. But further improvement requires a new approach that is tailored to each local catchment.
ACTIONS
‣ Recognise the limits on how much water quality improvement can be achieved
‣ Partner with farmers in local catchment areas to design edge of field and other landscape interventions.
‣ Resource and implement existing catchment management plans
‣ Support rural landholder groups and their approach to establishing their own achievable sustainability targets.
IMPROVE DISASTER PREPAREDNESS
Sugarcane is one of the most disaster tolerant crops in the world. Sugarcane growers are resilient and productive in the face of natural disasters such as cyclones, floods and drought. However, insurance for the cane regions is becoming prohibitively expensive, leaving growers financially vulnerable.
ACTIONS
‣ Allow the use of disaster recovery grants for crop replanting. As is currently the case in other states.
‣ Remove Queensland Government stamp duty from insurance premiums.
‣ Encourage the establishment of a competitive insurance market that offers sufficient coverage to primary producers.
Sugarcane growers produce over 30 million tonnes of renewable energy every year. For the first time in our history there is a genuine push from the industry, investors and the market to establish a new bioeconomy in Queensland. Government must support this push in a meaningful way to ensure Queensland doesn’t fall further behind international competitors.
ACTIONS
‣ Provide $600 million in cofunding with private enterprise to build or buy a Sustainable Aviation Fuel production facility and kickstart a SAF industry in Queensland with sugarcane as one of its primary feedstock.
‣ Introduce a 5% Queensland produced SAF mandate for all commercial airplanes using Queensland airports.
‣ Conduct a feasibility study into the establishment of a bioplastic industry in Queensland with sugarcane as a feedstock.
INVEST IN AGRICULTURAL WORKFORCE
Workforce shortages have caused significant issues for all agricultural sectors in recent years. In particular, a shortage of truck drivers and mill workers has contributed to the sugarcane harvest season length being extended in some regions. This has flow on effects on the productivity and profitability of growers.
ACTIONS
‣ Make agricultural studies a mandatory subject in Queensland schools.
‣ Invest in housing and amenities in regional communities and remove restrictions on worker accommodation provided on farm
‣ Introduce tax incentives for workers who move to regional Queensland to work in primary production.
‣ Waive HR and MR licencing fees and fund more truck driving training courses in relevant cane growing regions.
BACK GROWERS' ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION
Smartcane BMP has become essential for supporting and recognising the achievements of our growers in reducing environmental risks.
The program also documents grower achievements in reducing emissions intensity, and strengthens the sustainability credentials of Queensland sugar.
ACTIONS
‣ Partner with the industry to ensure Smartcane BMP has long-term funding support, at or above current levels.
‣ Support the industry’s intention to have sustainably produced sugarcane become a central feedstock for the biofuel industry.
FUND INDUSTRY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
A positive and effective partnership between the sugarcane industry’s research body and the State Government is critical to industry success.
ACTIONS
‣ Commit $20 million in funding for sugar and sugarcane research over the four-year term of the government.
‣ Establish a panel of grower, miller, research and government experts to oversee the approval of any government-funded research projects.
‣ Ensure grower productivity, profitability and sustainability is the central focus of industry research.
There are many opportunities to modernise and transform Queensland’s sugarcane industry, while simultaneously making Queensland a significant player in Australia’s bioeconomy revolution. To take advantage of these opportunities the industry needs a successful partnership with the State Government.
ACTIONS
‣ Move functions related to agriculture from the Department of Environment and Science to the Department of Agriculture and restore a balance in the Queensland Government’s approach from a solely water quality-driven focus to a productivity and profitability focus
‣ Establish Biosecurity Queensland as a stand-alone agency that is properly funded and resourced
‣ Cut the excessive and unnecessary red tape on growers who want to expand production
PARTIES PITCH FOR GROWER VOTE
Ahead of this month’s Queensland State General Election, Australian Canegrower asked the major parties how they plan to support sugarcane growers.
QUEENSLAND LABOR (INCUMBENT)
Queensland’s cane farmers know Steven Miles has had their back since he was sworn into Parliament nearly 10 years ago.
Together, they pledged to protect the environment and our agricultural assets through the Cane Changer program. The cane industry has a rich history of innovation and resilience and the Miles government has supported you every step of the way.
When Mossman was hit by Cyclone Jasper and the Mossman Mill went into voluntary administration, the Premier offered $12.1 million to save the community and set out a plan for the future.
The funds will assist growers with transport and standover cane, and support council with new projects to transition the community to rely on a new economy.
The Government is working closely with Queensland agriculture producers, including the sugar industry, to achieve net zero emissions and value add to the supply chain.
Queensland is internationally recognised as the best place in Australia to establish a sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) supply chain with feedstocks from cane, other crop residues, and possibly pongamia as Rio Tinto just announced in North Queensland.
We’re facilitating high-potential biorefinery projects, using feedstocks and technologies.
This full pipeline could contribute at least 750 metalitres of SAF per annum – enough to meet the Qantas commitment to a 10% SAF blend by 2030. This includes Jet Zero’s 113 metalitres SAF and Renewable Diesel facility in Townsville.
Following a $760,000 contribution to Jet Zero’s feasibility study, work continues to draw on sugarcane waste, providing another source of revenue for growers.
In central Queensland, the focus is on new food opportunities from sugarcane in partnership with Mackay Sugar and Queensland University of Technology to establish Mackay as a leading Bio Hub.
If elected, the Premier will continue with measures like Smartcane BMP; Reef Credits; AgTech adoption to support sustainability, traceability and resilience; SmartAg Queensland training through Queensland Farmers’ Federation and AgForce; and the Queensland Feral Pest Initiative including invasive plant and feral pig control.
For Queensland, biosecurity is economic security.
The Miles Labor Government will always fully fund Biosecurity Queensland and its increasing workforce, to focus on safeguarding our economy, environment, and way of life from the increasing risk and changing nature of biosecurity.
As your Premier, Steven Miles is committed to continuing to do what matters for Queensland.
Queensland Labor Leader Steven Miles
LIBERAL NATIONAL PARTY OF QUEENSLAND (LNP)
Queenslanders will be asking themselves at this election whether their lives are better or worse after almost a decade under Labor, and who has the right plan for Queensland’s future.
Queensland is a state built off the back of agriculture, and cane plays a strong part in this. Queensland sugarcane is renowned across the world and many of our rural and regional communities have thrived because of the cane industry.
The LNP’s vision for cane production in Queensland is bright, and we see cane playing a strong role in Queensland’s primary production for many years to come.
A future LNP Government will work to ensure the interests of Queensland CANEGROWERS are well represented and acted upon.
We want to see growers empowered by a government to allow them the confidence they need to invest more in their operations and expand into new markets across the world.
A future LNP Government will work collaboratively with industry to drive productivity and on-farm sustainability. We will work with industry, not against industry.
The LNP is committed to addressing concerns around energy tariffs and driving down the cost of electricity, improving disaster preparedness and investing in Queensland’s future agricultural workforce.
Industry led research is also critical to the future of the industry, and the LNP wants to ensure Queensland is at the cutting edge of on-farm productivity and innovation.
We believe farmers and landholders are the best environmentalists and champions of their land, and we want to see better support provided. The LNP has given consistent support for industry led best management practice programs like Smartcane BMP. The LNP has also given a public commitment to supporting renewable fuels and driving Queensland’s sustainable aviation fuel industry.
The LNP recently announced a major plan and critical funding package to ensure the ongoing future of the Mossman Mill that underpins this proud sugar community. The LNP’s historic $12.5 million investment will deliver immediate support for next year’s crop, and will be delivered if government changes in October. The LNP’s plan also includes funding to ensure the long-term success of Mossman’s sugar industry. In contrast, Labor has made it clear they plan to abandon Mossman’s cane industry in the hope of finding another untested option.
The LNP enjoys a strong and productive working relationship with CANEGROWERS , and we look forward to this continuing well into the future, regardless of the result on 26 October 2024.
LNP Agriculture Spokesperson Tony Perrett
QUEENSLAND GREENS
Qld Greens Agriculture Spokesperson
Michael Berkman
Life has been getting harder over the last few years because both major parties let big corporations rip us all off.
The Greens don’t take any corporate donations, so we’re on the side of everyday Queenslanders, not multinational profits.
We believe that agriculture is a vital part of Queensland’s economy and cultural history, and farmers should be celebrated, supported and rewarded for the role they play in producing our food and managing our natural resources.
Our plans to tax big mining corporations more fairly will fund better infrastructure and services across the state, helping to attract workers to the regions to address workforce shortages.
We’ll invest in fully funded state schools so regional schools don’t miss out, better public transport including highfrequency buses in 25 regional towns and cities, access to a free GP and 20 free psychology sessions for every Queensland community with 200 new free public health clinics, and a publicly owned developer to build 100,000 public homes across Queensland over six years, available to all Queenslanders to rent or buy at below-market prices.
And because we know that the best way to cut power bills for irrigators, households and small businesses is to reverse
ONE NATION QUEENSLAND
One Nation has always gone into bat for Queensland's world-leading sugarcane industry.
One Nation's Pauline Hanson and Malcolm Roberts were instrumental in the creation of a mandatory code of conduct for the industry in 2017 to resolve the dispute over supply agreements between QSL and Wilmar, leveraging their share of the balance of power in the Senate to ensure the Turnbull government acted to protect the returns of cane growers. We'll continue to support this important Queensland industry.
With farmers some of the nation's biggest consumers of electricity, One Nation supports an independent energy
privatisation, we’ll invest in 100% publicly owned renewable energy by 2030.
The Greens are committed to offering government support where insurance markets have failed, recognising that climate change is having profound impacts on insurance affordability. In the ACT, Greens in shared government have successfully phased out insurance duty and the Greens generally will work to replace stamp duties with more broadbased wealth taxes for a fairer system.
We’d also increase traineeships and apprenticeships in the areas of agriculture and primary production, and work with secondary schools, TAFEs and universities to promote agricultural sciences and biosecurity as career options.
The Greens also support:
increased funding to tackle pests and biosecurity threats that hurt CANEGROWERS and the environment;
ongoing support for Best Management Practice, to make sure growers doing the right thing are not undercut by less scrupulous competitors;
partnering with farmers and adopting a localised approach to improving outcomes for water quality and river health; and
assistance for farmers and primary producers to adopt ecologically sustainable farming systems.
With both major parties getting harder and harder to tell apart, the Greens are proposing a genuine alternative that means a little less for big corporations, and a lot more for ordinary Queenslanders.
policy which prioritises affordability and reliability. We oppose the net-zero policies of the LNP and Labor that are driving the spread of toxic renewables across regional Queensland and driving record electricity costs.
One Nation will back projects that improve water security for cane growers, and food security for the nation. We support building new dams, and reducing the cost of water needed by farmers.
We recognise that Australian farmers are the best stewards of their land, and we acknowledge the extraordinary efforts of cane growers over many years to reduce the environmental impacts of their businesses. One Nation will continue to support growers in achievable and affordable efforts to mitigate environmental impacts and improve water quality.
One Nation strongly supports government assistance to farmers in times of natural disasters. It is One Nation policy to eliminate Queensland government stamp duty on insurance premiums to reduce business and household costs.
One Nation Queensland Secretary Damian Huxham
KATTER’S AUSTRALIAN PARTY (KAP)
KAP Queensland Leader
Robbie Katter
Katter’s Australian Party (KAP) has a long history of being fierce advocates for farmers across regional Queensland. Since forming in 2011, the party has existed to ensure that Regional Queensland has an uncompromised voice in the Queensland Parliament.
KAP is focused on regional issues which guarantees the agriculture sector has a purest representation in parliament on topics that affect the regulation and legislation that governs farming practices across Queensland.
Our representation has stretched past advocacy and has led us to introducing bills into the Queensland Parliament.
In recent times KAP has:
Passed KAP’s Sugar Industry (Real Choice in Marketing) bill, giving power back to growers
Introduced KAP’s ‘Reversal of Great Barrier Reef Protection Measures’ bill
Introduced ethanol mandate legislation and advocated for the biofuels industry
Worked with Dr Peter Ridd and supported his ongoing scientific defence of farmers and refuted the basis of Labor’s Reef Regulations
Supported Mossman growers when they were abandoned by the sitting Member for Cook. KAP brought growers together, took their request to the Premier, and secured immediate funding to address transport costs for the 2024 and future seasons.
KAP is based in North Queensland. We will always fight for North Queensland’s fair share by calling for:
Scrapping of the Brisbane Olympics, and redirecting funds back to the regions
The building of water infrastructure projects to advance Queensland Agriculture
Prioritising the Bruce Highway and Western Development Roads over more south-east rail or tunnel projects
Scrapping unnecessary emissions targets that were introduced by Labor and backed by the LNP – emissions targets are threatening regional jobs and increasing the cost of electricity
A stop to price gouging and undercutting of farmers by major supermarket chains
The establishment of a rural bank with the express purpose of developing North Queensland and nation building industries.
KAP will continue to do the heavy lifting for the Queensland agricultural sector. This means working to scrap Labor’s farm destroying reef regulations, addressing development supressing tree clearing laws and restoring funding for the advancement of the sugar industry, feral pest and weed control and increased biosecurity measures to protect industry.
We support value-adding in Queensland agriculture, and One Nation is happy to work with the sugar industry to explore aviation fuel and bioplastic opportunities and build greater resilience and profitability for the sector.
One Nation supports the revival of dedicated agricultural colleges to provide training and employment opportunities and build a skilled, sustainable Australian rural workforce.
One Nation does not oppose targeted government support for agricultural research, development and extension provided it's fairly matched by grower and industry contributions and achieves real productivity and profitability gains that benefit the Queensland economy. We're happy to support assistance for research that ensures a prosperous future for cane growers.
One Nation believes in the right to farm. We'll always fight to protect and support Queensland's $27 billion farming, fisheries and forestry sector, and we'll always back Queensland's cane growers.
An update for our Grower Shareholders and the broader Sugar Industry
STL recognises the importance of being transparent and accountable and ensuring that Industry is kept up to date with our activities. We welcome the opportunity to reflect on the year just passed and the year ahead.
Full Year Financial Results
STL reported a strong result for the full financial year having delivered a profit of $32.5m, an 11.4% increase on the previous year. A significant contributor to this outcome was non sugar activities including favourable settlement of a bad debt provision, improved interest rates and non-sugar shipping volumes. Importantly, we remain debt free.
In recognition of this result, the STL Board has approved a dividend of 4.1 cents per share fully franked, a 5.1% increase on the same period last year. Additionally, and noting the challenging cost environment faced by all, the Board has approved a ‘one off’ rebate on the activity charge totalling $1.8M, which will be paid back to customers based upon the volumes received last financial year.
2024 Crushing Season
As we seem to experience each year, the crushing season always seems to throw up its own unique circumstances which are sent to test us. Pleasingly, the industry is resilient and despite adversity we seem to find a way to get through. For this year we have seen weather events, industrial relations issues in some regions and recent government support to move the coastal cane from Mossman down to Gordonvale.
In recent weeks, further rallying in the sugar price possibly off the back of harvest conditions in Brazil has created optimism which is infectious. Volumes overall in the Terminals are low, roughly a third of available capacity, and whilst this is reflective of a disrupted crush, it also indicates strong demand for the Australian product which is a positive sign.
Investing for the Future
Our profit result also enables STL to continue to invest heavily in these critical assets. At every terminal you will see prudent, fit for purpose capital investment all focussed around ensuring the longevity of the infrastructure. A few current examples include: completion of a HV substation at Lucinda and similar planning well underway at Townsville replacement of the 12km Lucinda Conveyor Belt without disruption to customers and work on the design of a new belt tensioning system commenced
• planning for site amenities refurbishments on budget delivery of common user infrastructure (CUI) at Bundaberg.
Income Diversification
Pursuing this strategic objective remains a clear focus for STL, without jeopardising our priority to the sugar industry. The CUI project has now been successfully commissioned and is playing its part in the non-sugar volumes that have boosted our financial performance.
Inactive Growers
The Board is fully committed to addressing this issue and in the past year has established a Sub Committee to further progress this matter. Just some of their activities undertaken to date include:
• regional shareholder briefings meetings with key Industry Associations
• issuing of an updated Member Status Declaration Form requesting additional detail to ensure compliance with the STL Constitution
• sought shareholder feedback via a questionnaire
The STL Board recognises that whilst this process is critically important, it will take time for shareholders to re-organise their financial affairs where necessary. We remain committed to further progress in an orderly and equitable way.
Terminal Operations
We have made strong progress on this key strategic objective and are well on track for a smooth transition by 30 June 2026 at the latest. This outcome will realise benefits for the entire industry by removing unnecessary duplication, reducing costs and driving greater efficiencies. Importantly, it will be undertaken in an environment of full transparency to give all stakeholders confidence in our management of the terminals. Thank you again for your support of STL, we look forward to servicing the needs of industry for many years to come.
David Quinn Chief Executive Officer
CANEGROWERS REGIONAL ROUND-UP
SUPPLIED BY CANEGROWERS DISTRICT OFFICES
MOSSMAN
August may be the end of the official winter months, but the trend continued with the monthly rainfall of 111.4mm more than doubling the monthly average.
The falls in September managed to keep areas damp, especially in the north of Mossman that have had little opportunity to fully dry out all year. However, we push on with harvest where we can as we attempt to get as much coastal cane delivered to Mulgrave as possible. At the end of Week 12 (W/E 8 September 2024), 70,353 tonnes of coastal cane has been processed at Mulgrave Mill with a season todate Mossman coastal average of 12.31CCS.
Stakeholders continue to hold transport update meetings each Friday to keep abreast of any unforeseen developments or issues which need to be dealt with.
The photos are of the lunch with David Kempton and Shadow Treasurer and Ann Leahy and the evening event same day with Leader of Opposition David Crisafulli, Steven Minnikin Shadow Minister for Transport and main Roads, Ann Leahy again Shadow Minister for Local Government and for Disaster Recovery
The growers and community had the opportunity to meet with consultants appointed to develop the Mossman Transition Plan at a meeting in Port Douglas and Mossman on 4-5
September 2024. There was a good gathering with significant grower representation present. The meeting heard about what the consultants have been engaged to do. They were currently undertaking the second phase of their activities looking for ideas and to prioritise those. After the presentation there was a session of feedback from five tables looking at what other opportunities there might be with the agricultural land, what barriers there are to developing and growing other crops and what support would be required.
The election campaign is in full swing in the Douglas Shire with the LNP Candidate David Kempton holding a number of meetings with Council, stakeholders and growers about how things are travelling following the Cyclone and Flood event of December 2023, and where things sit regarding the
TABLELAND
A concerted effort from SRA, MSF and CANEGROWERS
Tableland has seen the implementation of a mother plot on the Tablelands, after the existing seed plot had been closed.
There was concern that there would not be clean seed available in this district for a couple of years, due to finding available area for the mother plot and the availability of stock to plant the whole stick cane
current attempt to cut and transport the 2024 cane crop to Mulgrave, the mill sale and liquidation process and the process to develop a Mossman Transition Plan.
A good turnout of growers, business owners and community members had the opportunity to meet and hear the LNP Shadow Treasurer David Janetzki, Shadow Minister for Transport and Main Roads Steven Minnikin, Shadow Minister for Local Government, Shadow Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy, and Leader of the LNP David Crisafulli speak on 16 September 2024.
There was a growers’ meeting held in Mossman on Friday 20 September to hear from State Department of Agriculture and Fisheries representatives about the transition funds made available to assist growers for 2024.
from Mossman Agricultural Services. This will keep clean seed accessible to growers without losing a season. There will be some restrictions on the varieties available.
A big thank you to all who helped as there was a lot of work involved over a very short period to get this completed. The estimate for this season’s crop has been reduced to 814,000 tonnes, with the completion of harvest to be around the first week in December.
CAIRNS REGION
Rain has continued to hamper crushing and farming operations across the region.
Planting in some sub catchments has been well achieved while others still have a lot outstanding. As a result of this continuing wet weather and as per the South Johnstone Cane Supply Contract the planting subsidy deadline has been extended to the end of October.
CANEGROWERS Cairns Region in collaboration with SRA has undertaken to establish an SRA approved mother plot and a distribution plot for clean
The availability of truck drivers is once again impacting on the harvest, along with poor cane affected from grubs and the extraordinary wet season.
supported the decision to extend the planting allowance deadline by one month, now running until 31 October. This extension will provide some much-needed flexibility for growers under these challenging conditions.
Industry representatives are preparing for what is expected to be a logistically challenging final few weeks of the season. The crop forecast has been revised down to 60 t/ha, with
a total reduction of 197,000 tonnes across the contracted area. At the time of writing, 37.1% of the crop had been harvested, with an estimated finish date of 24 November, factoring in further wet weather delays.
Despite these setbacks, growers and contractors are pushing through the remainder of the season, making the most of every available window for harvesting and planting.
seed. This is a first and reflects the key priorities of the SRA District Plan.
To meet the tight timelines needed to establish these plots, the excellent work and collaboration between the staff of CANEGROWERS Cairns Region, the host farmer and his team, SRA staff, Mulgrave Productivity resources, not to mention the Mossman growers who assisted with the hand cutting is acknowledged.
It is envisaged that these plots will be run for the benefit of CANEGROWERS Cairns members and a first for the Region will bound to be appreciated by members.
The weather is slowly getting better, with only 90mm being recorded in eight days up to 13 September.
The total rainfall for the calendar year is now at 4,560mm. Total number of rain days for the calendar year is 175 out of 256 days. The water table is slowly dropping with longer daylight hours assisting, even though there are light showers persisting.
of the cane production area. The updated estimate for the season is 2,262,800. The current throughput is at 979,500 tonnes or 43.29% of yield. CCS is holding up better than expected given the amount of rain that continues to dominate the year, with the season average of 12.87. The mill is expected to pass the 1 million tonnes of cane crushed on Sunday 15 September.
Growers in the Innisfail region are becoming increasingly frustrated by wet weather delays with 958 hours of lost time recorded by the end of week 12.
These conditions have caused significant delays to time critical farming operations, particularly planting. In response, the Industry Management Committee unanimously
Completed yield is currently at 77.63 tonnes per hectare, with an expected yield of 75.47 tonnes per hectare at seasons end. Harvested area is at 38.16% or 11,440 hectares
Week 13 of the season had nine varieties above the 12.87 CCS average. The three top varieties were SRA16 – 13.8, SRA28 – 13.6 and Q250 – 13.5. The top two varieties for tonnes supplied
TULLY
in week 13 are Q253 – 45,880 tonnes and Q208 – 34,578 tonnes. The season average hourly crush rate is 695 tonnes with some weeks reaching 714 tonnes per hour. Cane supply has been 100% green cane this year, with little opportunity to burn because of the continuous wet weather and the uncertainty of removing the cane from the paddock if burnt.
With continuous cloud cover and rain, soft weeds and grasses are taking advantage of ideal
growing conditions. Lower than average crop yield also results in less trash blanket allowing for unwanted vegetation to emerge through the trash. An increase in seed bed will also make weed management more difficult for the 2025 crop cycle.
Tully Variety Management Group held their annual Farm Walk last month, the CANEGROWERS Board met with QSL and the Estimates/Trending Working Group met to review the changes implemented this season.
the way. This trip promises to offer valuable insights into the practices of other cane-growing regions and foster collaboration among growers.
The Women In Sugar Herbert (WISH) group is also in the midst of planning an educational trip, with visits to Brisbane and Rocky Point on the agenda.
These excursions are invaluable for members, providing opportunities to gain fresh perspectives on the sugar
industry while forging stronger connections with growers in other districts.
CANEGROWERS Herbert River would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Phil Patane, SRA District Manager for Herbert River, for his contributions to the local sugar industry. Phil has been a proactive and dedicated supporter of the Herbert district, and while we will miss his leadership, we wish him every success in his new role in the United States.
The Herbert River district has faced a disrupted sugarcane season, with challenges stemming from unseasonal weather patterns, rainfall, mill inefficiencies, and transport issues.
A prolonged pay dispute between Wilmar and its workers added to the disruptions, but fortunately, this matter has now been resolved.
These weather conditions have not only disrupted planting but have made it increasingly difficult for growers to complete planting within the optimal timeframe. Some may struggle to finish planting as the window of opportunity rapidly closes.
In recent weeks, the district’s crop was re-estimated and, while it has decreased, it remains slightly overestimated. At the time of writing, the Herbert River district had crushed 1,761,960 tonnes of cane with a season-todate CCS of 12.63.
The CANEGROWERS
Herbert River Young Growers Branch held a well-attended
meeting recently, which saw the participation of key stakeholders from the industry. Guest speakers included representatives from HCPSL (Herbert Cane Productivity Services Ltd.), SRA, and the Chairman of CANEGROWERS
Herbert River. This meeting provided a critical forum for discussing the pressing issues that growers face today.
Among the topics covered were the availability and management of seed cane, regulations imposed by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR), and the importance of carrying licenses while operating haul outs or heavy vehicles. Another topic of interest was the ongoing operational challenges at the mills, including late bin deliveries, which continue to affect many growers in the district.
The Young Growers Branch is also looking forward to an exciting learning opportunity. A trip to Cairns is scheduled for March 2025, with stops at farms in other districts along
September was a good month for the Burdekin as everyone was pleased to see the crushing recommence in earnest after the two-week wet weather stop in August.
We also finally witnessed the resolution of the long running 18-month-old Wilmar EA Dispute which was finalised on 13 September when 55% of the staff who voted, agreed to accept Wilmar’s revised offer.
Burdekin Cane Audit Services held their Mid-Season review where an update was provided on progress and issues from each of the four mills with responses from Wilmar. The review is an important communication mechanism for all parties to become aware of issues and status of previous issues to ensure continued confidence in the cane auditing process and to raise relevant issues for consideration.
CBL attended a Migration Strategy Forum in Townsville organised by Home Affairs which provided the opportunity to engage directly with the
Department on regional migration issues where we flagged the opportunity that migration could be a solution to address haulout driver shortfalls in the sugarcane industry. Improved linkages with the State Government on devising a strategy to package HR licensing for migrants specific to the sugarcane industry was discussed.
NQDT hosted the Burdekin Region Water Quality Science Forum in Townsville. CBL participated in this event which was well attended. BPS flagged the risk that a ban on the use of paraquat could have on the environment in terms of increased weeds, longer lasting residues from alternative products and increased tillage which could contribute to rising sediment levels. SRA provided an insightful presentation on automated irrigation in terms of savings for; water, energy and DIN which was well received, and the feedback highlighted that contemporary data from more current/recent projects needs to be taken into consideration for decision making by policy makers.
BURDEKIN
HERBERT RIVER
On 11 September, CBL attended the Harvest Management Group meeting where Wilmar provided an update on mill performance and budgeted finish dates incorporating the revised 2024 estimate. The estimate has been reduced from 8,470,000t down to 8,200,000t, which is a
PROSERPINE
It was welcome news to have the industrial action settled on Friday 13 September.
For Proserpine Mill, the continued strike interruptions added to the already delayed crush with early season rains exceeding the annual budget. By 20 September, only 773,433 tonnes had been crushed. This was 45% of the expected crop (1.7mt) despite 55% of the season having lapsed. With much work to be done, it was encouraging to have three consecutive weeks over September exceed the budgeted crush with significant improvements in mill performance. However, continued good crushing was sorely needed should the season end date remain early December with concern of a wet finish.
Cane quality had not yet seen a significant pick up through September with the hope that CCS would improve into October. The mill average CCS at the end of crush week 12 was 13.86. Although this was close to the expected average CCS, a good pick up was needed through the upcoming weeks to avoid the need for a downward review of the interim CCS. With a change in the Mill Laboratory Coordinator, the CANEGROWERS Audits
drop of 270,000t. Season end date is budgeted for the week ending 21 December which incorporates up to 10 days of additional time lost to wet weather. Wilmar advised that Burdekin mill availability season to date is 82.9%.
strategies of the Board being initiated, it is hoped that these valuable stocks remain in the hands of members and the grower community at large. Any willing buyers or sellers are encouraged to contact Jess Harrison at the Office on (07) 4945 1844
status where full profits can be retained for future lean years or important infrastructure investments in the case of Water Cooperatives.
continued with a temporary staff replacement while the position was advertised. This position is critically important to growers and should be neutral to the Cane Analysis Program (CAP) and audit process.
CANEGROWERS Proserpine Insurance had a change in Insurance Manager from Brad Hancock to Racheal de Koning during the month of September. Appreciation and thanks are afforded to Brad for his recent years of service to our insurance clients, while a warm welcome is extended to Racheal. Racheal is the Manager of Solaris Insurance located in Ayr and is well known to Burdekin growers. With 30 years of insurance experience, we are confident Racheal will be a valued asset to the Proserpine community with Jess Harrison continuing as the local Admin/Insurance Officer.
Where CANEGROWERS and QCGO continued to support members in recovery of outstanding bailing monies, almost all invoices had been paid by mid-September. This was welcome relief for those members who were involved in the lengthy process. STL share transfers also continued under facilitation by the CANEGROWERS Office. With further share retention
Preparations for the Not-ForProfit (NFP) Self-Assessments on all four entities continued with the October deadline looming. It is key that all grower organisations retain NFP
Preparations for the AGM were also underway with the initial date set for 19 November. All members are encouraged to attend with important changes being proposed for the Proserpine District CANEGROWERS Cooperative Rules. Further details will be forwarded in the coming weeks.
It has been a great relief to Plane Creek growers to see the resolution to the longwinded EBA dispute between Wilmar and mill workers.
The dispute has cost the Plane Creek area dearly, and it is now upon the whole supply chain to pull together and remove the crop. This will depend on strong mill reliability and continued good weather to succeed.
Noting that the crop estimate has increased by 130,000t to 1.45Mt, it is now clear that, with the delays of the season already, we will be cutting into the Christmas period and may still be left with standover. Contact is being made with NHVR and TMR
around establishing permits if needed for the Christmas curfew.
Mackay Sugar is sticking to a cut-out date of 18 December. At the time of writing, 42% of the crop had been removed, with reasonable throughput at Racecourse and Farleigh Mills, but Marian was still having sporadic processing issues that mean Marian was about 10% behind the overall group, with some growers supplying Marian Mill at very low percentages of their crop removed.
Marian Branch meeting for September was dedicated to this issue, with 44 members attending to hear from and address concerns with Mackay Sugar incoming CEO/current General
MACKAY / PLANE CREEK
Oakenden grower Col Sievers was featured in the September Billet. Still farming at 88, he bought his first farm at 14
Manager Operations Carl Morton, with Manager Cane Supply and Logistics Jason Walton, and Grower Directors. We thank them for connecting with our members.
Any growers requiring assistance with any issues are encouraged
to call 4944 2600 to get the ball rolling on a solution.
Keep an eye on our Facebook page, The Billet and weekly District Manager Updates for emerging training and industry opportunities.
We are in the early planning stages of a Southern District Haulout Operator Essentials course, funded through SmartAg Qld and likely to take place in March 2025.
ISIS BUNDABERG
Bundaberg Sugar Mills processed 47,735.34 tonnes for the week ending 22 September 2024.
This brings the Season to date to 702,631.75 tonnes. The average CCS for Bundaberg Sugar Mill for week 18 was 14.38 CCS and the season CCS average for Bundaberg Sugar Mill is at 13.21 CCS. The highest individual CCS for the week was 16.50 units for KQ228A Plant and the highest variety average CCS for the week, with supply greater than 500 tonnes, was 14.66 units for variety SRA 29.
With the weather warming up and soil moisture levels remaining elevated, cane suckers are starting to show
and are contributing to low CCS results, base CCS remains set at 13.0 and wet weather has pushed the expected finish date out to 8 December.
Spring planting is well underway and by now the Sugar Services team should have completed deliveries of One-eye Setts. Through Bundaberg Ag-Food & Fibre Alliance we contributed to the review of the Bundaberg Regional Council Agricultural Buffer Planning Policy, including the request to formulate and implement Right to Farm guidelines to assist the public with an understanding of what it means to live in a rural community and reduce the number of complaints regarding
SEEKING THE NEXT CROP OF LEADERS
Beginning in early 2025, the NEXT RATOON mentoring program has been designed to help our next group of leaders build strong connections, leadership skills, and knowledge to contribute to a profitable and innovative sugarcane industry.
For more information www.nextratoon.com.au nextratoon2024@canegrowers.com.au
The Bundaberg CANEGROWERS Ltd and Bundaberg Sugar Services Limited AGMs will be held at Brothers Sports Club from 6pm on Thursday 24 October.
This will be followed by a QSL Market update and light refreshments.
The Isis district was blessed with great harvesting and planting weather during September.
At the time of writing Isis Mill had crushed just over 695,900 tonnes with a season average CCS of 13.27.
We have continued to experience mill breakdowns with some 648 hours of lost time recorded for the season date. Despite this Isis Mill has been quick to get the Mill up and running again on each occasion and has been averaging a crush rate of about 385 to 395 tonnes per hour.
Much of our time has been dedicated to monitoring the
implementation of the cane analysis program and the allocation for the unprecedented amount of delayed cane.
We have also continued to work closely with the Auditor and Mill management to ensure growers are not being significantly disadvantaged and are paid in accordance with the cane supply agreement.
The CANEGROWERS Isis Harvesting Equity Committee has continued to keep a very close eye on harvesting equity and season length. The equity between groups is still in a manageable position however we have identified some inequity within groups and are working to ensure these groups have
strategies in place to ensure this does not continue.
At a recent Board Meeting we met with the new QSL CEO Mark Hampson and Isis Mill CEO Craig Wood where we laid the foundations for our CSA negotiations which will commence early next year.
Bundaberg Regional Council called for feedback on their Agriculture Buffer Policy.
A submission was lodged through our membership with
Bundaberg Ag-Food and Fibre Alliance requesting a set of Right to Farm guidelines be developed and implemented. The guidelines will cover matters including neighbour complaints around noise, odors, dust, smoke, ash and chemical use. We have also recently lodged a further submission to the QCA relating to the rural water irrigation pricing review and continued to support the call for a decision from the State Government on the proposed North Bundaberg Coal mine.
Most of September has been steady without setting records until week 16 when an electrical fault caused a delay of a couple of days and reduced processing for the rest of the week.
The highlight has been the amount of planting activity undertaken across the district.
The Seed cane plot being established at Ron Downman’s farm is now full of one-eyed setts and being irrigated pending some rain this weekend.
Isis Mill continue to work toward improving the Transloader for 2025. Further discussions on how best to make improvements are currently under way and we hope to be able to confirm the improvements soon.
As of 22 September 2024 (week 8), Rocky Point has crushed 87,569 tonnes of cane at an average CCS of 14.09.
We have crushed approximately 25% of the crop.
Planting is well underway, with excellent conditions.
The entire crop of Q232 is very heavily flowered and if not cut soon, will begin to lose weight.
The mill has been hampered by numerous stops, and we believe we won’t get the entire crop off before the end of November. Many growers will be reluctant to cut into December (and will only cut plough out cane into early December).
Fire ants are still very prevalent, especially after recent showers. Growers have received another batch of bait from the Fire Ant Suppression Taskforce, for widespread application across all farms.
There has been no lost time due to break downs I would recommend them to any person or company who are looking to invest in a new set of o sets.
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NEXT RATOON – SUPPORTING OUR EMERGING LEADERS IN 2025
Membership Engagement & Innovation
BY MATT KEALLEY
CANEGROWERS Next Ratoon mentoring program is designed to build strong connections by supporting leadership skills and knowledge to contribute to a profitable and innovative sugarcane industry.
The program is strategically developed to connect participants with industry experts through a structured mentoring process, ensuring effective learning opportunities and the cultivation of strong professional relationships.
Applications for the 2025 Next Ratoon are open!
CANEGROWERS is inviting growers aged between 18–40 to apply for the 2025 program.
We are seeking growers who are looking for a unique opportunity to gain insights from seasoned professionals, explore fresh perspectives, and build connections for their personal and professional growth.
Applicants would need to be connected to a sugarcane growing business that is a member of CANEGROWERS
Mark Barbagallo, a Burdekin grower and mentee from the 2024 program took a lot from his mentoring relationship and says “If you’re curious about how the industry works and how you can contribute back to it, it’s definitely worth considering”.
The value of mentoring
The Queensland sugarcane industry has fantastic younger growers in the districts. Next Ratoon is about making sure people in the industry understand that CANEGROWERS is willing to support them in their development.
Dylan Wedel a grower from Mackay and District Manager, Central with SRA was part of the 2024 program “I think it’s a real booster to be able to speak to other people in the same boat as you – optimistic about the future and have quite a lot of time in the industry ahead of them”.
Participants said the program improved their professional networks, industry knowledge, and personal development.
Rebekah Pace, a young grower from Herbert River found the mentoring experience rewarding and gave her the confidence to try new things “it may be daunting, the whole application and putting yourself out there but it’s worth it…”
Applications are open until 13 December 2024 CANEGROWERS is looking for six individuals who excel with the following qualities:
1. Eagerness to learn: Our ideal applicant is eager to soak up new insights and put their learnings into action.
2. Open-mindedness: Successful applicants will have an open-minded approach, asking questions, seeking advice, and embracing new challenges along the way.
3. Committed to success: Program participants will invest their time and effort to learn and grow, taking ownership of their goals and actively contributing to the industry’s future.
4. Effective collaborator: Our ideal candidate not only listens and responds to mentor feedback, but also strives to amplify their voice of the industry and ambitions of CANEGROWERS
What’s in the program?
Next Ratoon runs from February to August 2025 and participants will get:
1. Exclusive access to the Next Ratoon event in Brisbane in February 2025
2. Six personalised monthly mentoring sessions between March and August 2025
3. Course materials and tools to support participants throughout the program
4. Guidance and virtual check-in sessions
5. Attendance at the celebration event in August 2025
How to get involved?
To apply go to www.nextratoon.com.au and follow the links.
Applications close 13 December 2024.
For further information check the website or contact nextratoon@canegrowers.com.au or call (07) 3864 6444
COMPLIANCE GOOD OR BAD
Industry & Farm Inputs
BY BURN ASHBURNER
It is sometime difficult to balance the need for laws and regulations to protect the environment, the public and people (including growers) with the practicality and cost to the grower of complying.
CANEGROWERS represent growers’ interests and advocate for sensible laws and regulations which provide a balance between these. This is not as simple as it may sound.
The CANEGROWERS Farm Input and Research Committee has amongst other things a responsibility to make recommendations to the Policy Council on workplace health and safety and heavy vehicle transport issues. These both include a plethora of laws and regulations. Most of these are common sense, however some are more controversial. There are always growers who believe compliance with some of these regulations adds a cost which far outweighs the benefits they are designed for.
A good example of this are the load restraint regulations which state that:
A Load must not be placed on a heavy vehicle in a way that makes it unstable or unsafe
A Load must be secured so it is unlikely to fall or be dislodged from a vehicle
An appropriate method must be used to restrain the load.
The reality is that as an industry we need to comply with regulations and CANEGROWERS has an obligation to inform growers of these even if they are not popular as we have done with load restraint regulations.
CANEGROWERS has been working with the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) to understand compliance actions and has had some assurances that NHVR will provide assistance with education and that compliance activity generally is aimed at high-risk areas.
NHVR took back the heavy vehicle compliance role in April this year and indicated to CANEGROWERS that general heavy vehicle compliance activity would be increased and not aimed specifically at the sugarcane industry. This has happened and in the normal course of compliance activity
cane haulage vehicles seen spilling their load (even off the chassis) or not meeting road worthy regulations (e.g. old or worn or incorrect tyres) or not complying with fatigue requirements have been pulled up and some infringement notices have been issued.
Growers and contractors need to be aware of this increase in compliance activity and ensure the heavy agricultural machinery including cane haulage vehicles are compliant. Workplace health and safety is another area of compliance which is not popular with growers but can have significant consequences. The Rural Plant Code of Practice 2024 has now been approved. Information on this was part of an article in the last Australian Canegrower magazine. The important thing for growers to understand is that although this is designed to support the agricultural industry to meet its work health and safety legislative obligations it is also a minimum measure used in assessing compliance if there is an incident.
It is not the most entertaining read, but I urge growers to be aware of the code and see if they are meeting their obligations, it can be found on the www.worksafe.qld.gov.au website.
CANEGROWERS will continue to advocate for sensible, workable and safe laws and regulations but must also inform growers of their obligations to meet these even when they are not popular.
FARMING’S FUTURE IN A DECARBONISING ECONOMY
Sustainability & Environment
BY MICK QUIRK
Achieving an economy-wide goal of net zero emissions by 2050 presents many challenges for Australia. What role will agriculture be expected to play?
To inform how each sector of the economy can practically contribute to achieving this goal, the Federal Government commissioned an analysis of the potential technology transition pathways for each sector – Energy and electricity, Transport, Industry and waste, Agriculture and land, Resources, and the Built Environment.
So, what did they come up with for the Ag and Land sector? Importantly, the report recognises the sector’s essential roles for food security, supporting regional economies, and generating export income.
And, just as importantly, it also recognises the limited technologies available for farmers to significantly reduce farm emissions without penalising their production of food or fibre.
The livestock sector is a primary focus of the analysis, given methane emissions from ruminant livestock contribute 64% of the total greenhouse gas emissions from our sector. But practical technologies for reducing methane emissions are a major challenge, and little progress is expected for another 10 years or more. So, the most optimistic outlook is for a modest reduction in methane emissions by 2050.
The significant emissions from the cropping sector are nitrous oxide from urea application, and cabon dioxide from diesel use. There is technology available for significantly reducing losses of nitrous oxide from applied nitrogen fertiliser, through use of nitrification inhibitors. But the higher cost of treated fertiliser prevents its widespread adoption.
This could readily be overcome via a market mechanism (such as carbon credits) that values the emissions reduction and more than compensates for the extra cost of the treated fertiliser. But an approved protocol for this way of generating carbon credits has not been a priority for the Federal Government so far.
There are few current options for reducing reliance on diesel. Biofuels and green diesel are available, but only in small
quantities and at a much higher price. So, reliance on diesel will continue for some years until practical, cost-effective options emerge from changes in other parts of the economy. For example, future developments in the use of electrified heavy vehicles in the transport and mining sectors may enable their practical use in agriculture.
And what about the capture of carbon dioxide emissions by the Ag and Land sector?
The farming sector is often seen as a means of capturing CO2 from the atmosphere and storing it for the long term. Much hope was held for soil carbon to be a major player in the emissions game, but those in the know say that its actual value for long-term emissions reduction is negligible.
Growing trees in favourable environments remains the only safe bet for capturing and storing carbon in the Ag and Land sector. This is actually a risk for food and fibre production –many large corporates will need to offset their greenhouse emissions, and will be looking for activities like tree planting to invest in. This may well see Ag land taken out of production.
CANEGROWERS and other peak agriculture groups are aware of this risk and are advocating for stronger protection of land used for agriculture.
The prospects for agriculture in a decarbonising economy
The agriculture sector can thrive in a transitioning economy so long as governments continue to:
recognise the prime importance of the food and fibre sector
appreciate the lack of practical and cost-effective options for farmers to reduce their emissions
support research into technologies that enable emissions reduction
develop market mechanisms to enable use of these technologies (such as fertilizer treated with nitrification inhibitors)
correct their expectations around soil carbon, and
ensure farmland is not sacrificed to meet corporate demand for offsets from tree plantings.
SCIENCE BACKS FARMERS’ CLAIMS ON REEF MANAGEMENT
Sustainability & Environment
BY ELISA WESTMORE
CANEGROWERS has been vindicated by the 2022 Scientific Consensus Statement – a comprehensive review conducted by a diverse team of experts across various scientific fields. This statement serves as a critical tool for policymakers, guiding decisions on how best to manage the Great Barrier Reef amid growing environmental challenges.
The report emphasises that the most significant threat to the reef is not poor water quality, but rather the escalating impacts of climate change. Increased intensity of cyclones, coral bleaching from heatwaves, and ocean acidification are identified as the primary dangers. Reduced water quality, such as increased sediment, may diminish the reef’s ability to recover from these climate-related events, and is not the main issue. Further, any effect of elevated inorganic nitrogen concentrations on coral recovery is limited to inshore corals, and not to outer reefs.
CANEGROWERS has long advocated for a balanced approach to reef management – one that recognises the importance of water quality while also considering the economic sustainability of the cane industry. The organisation has consistently criticised the ABCD system used in reef report cards, which ranks the risks of different practices from “lowest risk” to “highest risk.” We have argued that the practices promoted as”lowest risk” and “moderate-low risk” for nutrient management reduce farm profits, making widespread adoption unlikely.
The latest Scientific Consensus Statement supports CANEGROWERS ’ stance. It finds that nitrogen rates falling below the industry’s SIX EASY STEPS program – a threshold demanded by the “lowest risk” and “low risk” categories –are indeed uneconomic for cane farmers. Consequently, expecting farmers to adopt these measures on a large scale is unrealistic.
On the other hand, the statement acknowledges that practices in the Smartcane BMP program, are both economically viable for growers and effective in reducing water quality impacts. The report suggests that widespread adoption of Smartcane BMP could achieve a significant reduction in dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) loads, without the economic drawbacks of the “low risk” and “lowest risk” practices that assume growers can get by with N rates below those derived from the SIX EASY STEPS program.
Furthermore, the consensus also aligns with CANEGROWERS ’ long-held view on the Crown of Thorns starfish outbreaks. The statement confirms that these outbreaks are associated with many interacting factors and the impact of additional nutrients remains uncertain.
These findings highlight the necessity for government to heed the voices of farmers and collaborate closely with regional communities. Developing tailored approaches to water quality improvement – ones that consider local conditions and benefit the farming community – is vital for sustainable environmental and agricultural outcomes.
Encouragingly, the Department of Agriculture is currently reviewing land management targets to guide investment by reef water quality programs and is working in consultation with local experts to create more localised and realistic objectives. This process, developed with input from CANEGROWERS , could signal a shift towards more effective and inclusive strategies for reef management moving forward.
For farmers, this is a clear indication that their experience and insights are crucial and essential to the success of efforts to reduce impacts on water quality. It also signals broad acceptance that well-managed farming can indeed go hand-in-hand with environmental stewardship.
BUSINESS NAMES— MUST I HAVE ONE?
CANEGROWERS Legal Advisor
BY CHRIS COOPER
Many growers carry on their farming operations under a business name. If you carry on a business in a name other than your own, then you need to register that business name with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).
The following are some examples of how the regulations apply:
John Smith: If John Smith carries on a business under his own name John Smith, then no business name is required. If however, John Smith trades as something like John Smith and Co or John Smith Plumbing or John Smith Farming, then he is trading under a name other than his own and he must register the business name.
John and Mary Smith: If John and Mary are in partnership and trade as say John and Mary Smith then no new name is being used and no business name registration is required. If however, John and Mary trade as say J & M Farming then they are using a different name for business and trading purposes and must register the business name.
XYZ Pty Ltd: If a company trades under a name other than the company name then the company must register the business name. If XYZ Pty Ltd trades as XYZ Pty Ltd then no new name is being used and no registration is required. If however, the company trades as XZY Farming or XYZ Enterprises then the business name is required to be registered.
Ownership of business name
The registration of business name does not necessarily provide ownership or exclusive use of that name.
Registration does not prevent others from registering or using a similar name. To gain exclusive use rights over a business name, the name should also be registered with IP Australia as a trademark.
Trading names
Since 2012 trading names have been phased out and replaced with the business name regime. Businesses carrying on under a business name need to be registered as a business name with ASIC and also with the Australian Business Name (ABN) register.
Cost
ASIC applies the following fees for registering and renewing business names:
$44 for 1 year
$102 for 3 years
Resources and help
ASIC publishes a wide range of fact sheets and guidelines to help businesses through the business name process. asic.gov.au
This article contains general advice only. The particular facts and circumstances of each case always need to be taken into account.
The comments in this article are general in nature. For further free advice and information about this topic or other legal matters, members should contact their local CANEGROWERS office or please contact CANEGROWERS Legal Adviser, Chris Cooper on Free Call 1800 177 159
PART TIME FARMER –FULL TIME CONVERSATIONALIST
Lindsay Mischke said that is how his father Kevin, better known as Kev, will be remembered by those that knew him. Kev passed away aged 97 years on Wednesday 28 August.
Kev was an avid second-generation sugarcane grower and a long-standing member of the Rocky Point community. He had a strong passion for the industry, intricate knowledge of growing and the capacity to face challenges with a matter of fact and positive outlook.
But Kev was always most comfortable helping people, as well as talking about and promoting the industry. He was an integral part of CANEGROWERS education portfolio in the early days taking part in displays and promotions
in Queen St Mall and the Ekka Rural Discovery Days, introducing the sugarcane to thousands of school students, Kev was also a carboard fixture at the primary industries pavilion at the Brisbane Expo 88. Busloads of students from Brisbane Boys College continue to converge on the family farms to learn more about the industry.
Kev told Lindsay they cut 300 tonnes of cane by hand each season before mechanical harvesting was introduced and the family farmed other crops and livestock over the years, including dairy cows and pigs.
“Father put 3-4 teaspoons of sugar in his tea each day and he lived to 97 years, so that’s saying something isn’t it,” Lindsay said.
“He was from a generation that were extremely resourceful about the adversity that they faced, they worked through it, problem solved and helped each other out. They only had each other to rely on in those early days, there was no State Emergency Services around, back then.”
Kev just loved that his son Lindsay and grandson Sam are following in his farming footsteps. Growing sugarcane on the family farm.
Why Farmers Like Dougall Morrison Trust Delmade Offset Discs to Tackle Tough Terrain
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Dougal is one of many happy Delmade customers. Richard Sattler covered 6700ha with his disc and said, “It makes life so easy when you haven’t got a maintenance problem
and you’re confident in the machine”. Ray Heilbronn, who had his Delmade Tip Trailer and End Tow Roller delivered to the Gold Coast, said the units were “Australian made and made to last”. To see what other customers say visit www.delmade.com.au/stories
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QRIDA marks 30 years of supporting regional and rural Queensland
ADVERTORIAL
Celebrations are in order this month as the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) marks 30 years of helping primary producers get started and expand their growing operations.
QRIDA Regional Area Manager for the Central Coast and Whitsundays, Tegan McBride, said QRIDA’s government financial assistance has been helping rural and regional communities overcome challenges and boost business since it was established on 1 October 1994.
“We are all proud to be celebrating QRIDA’s 30-year anniversary this October. This milestone gives us an
opportunity to reflect on how we continue to support regional and rural communities,” Tegan said.
“QRIDA has administered more than $6 billion in financial assistance in its 30-year history which includes concessional loans and grants to help primary producers kick-start their careers, improve the sustainability of their enterprises, and prepare for and overcome significant weather events.”
Tegan joined QRIDA as Regional Area Manager for the Central Coast and Whitsundays in 2022, bringing a wealth of experience in regional development and farm practice change as well as having previously worked on sustainable agricultural projects around the Mackay area with Reef Catchment.
“It’s rewarding to have a hands-on impact on the agricultural development of this region by supporting primary producers to achieve their farming goals and visions,” Tegan said.
“Helping families to continue their family farming legacies and supporting first time farmers to fulfill their dreams is rewarding. I enjoy working with the people in my region and building relationships that last”.
Tegan has helped a number of growers invest in their enterprise during her time as Regional Area Manager, such as canegrower Andrew Vassallo.
Andrew Vassallo accessed a QRIDA Sustainability Loan to improve the irrigation infrastructure on his cane farm, which has given him greater control over
his irrigation and saves him significant labour time as a one-man operation.
“I accessed the Sustainability Loan and a majority of those funds went towards the centre pivot irrigation. With the pivot, I can control how much water I can put on, the uniformity is unbelievable, we don’t get any runoff,” Andrew said.
“Working with our Regional Area Manager made the whole process so simple. They had a great understanding of the sugar industry which was a benefit.”
To find out more information about how QRIDA could help you grow your cane enterprise, call 1800 623 946 or visit qrida.qld.gov.au
QRIDA Regional Area Manager for the Central Coast and Whitsundays, Tegan McBride, is helping CANEGROWERS to boost their enterprise with QRIDA’s financial assistance.
Don't let the wet season erode your asset
ADVERTORIAL
It feels like yesterday we were stuck in a persistent wet season, and for many Queenslanders, it still lingers.
As we near the end of the crush, weather experts predict another torrential wet season ahead. I can recall hearing, “We had wet seasons like this back in the ‘60s.” While that may be true, the soils back then could better handle large rain events due to the organic matter, natural compost, carbon, and microbes like fungi and bacteria in the soil, which contributed to the formation of humus.
Humus is the dark, nutrient-rich organic material that results from the decomposition of plant and animal matter. It plays a vital role in soil fertility, improving soil structure, moisture retention, and supporting beneficial microorganisms. Key benefits of humus include:
• Nutrient retention: Humus stores essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulphur, making them available for plants.
• Water retention: It boosts soil’s capacity to retain moisture, helping plants during dry periods. A 1% increase in organic matter can increase water-holding capacity by up to 170,000 litres per hectare, while also binding 132 tonnes of CO2 per
hectare that would otherwise be in the atmosphere.
• Soil structure: Humus helps create a loose, crumbly soil structure, enhancing root growth and aeration.
• Microbial activity: It fosters a healthy environment for microorganisms, contributing to nutrient cycling and soil health.
A healthy balance of microbes (fungi, bacteria, etc) is essential for soil productivity. In agricultural soils, microbial biomass measurements of 200ug C/g are poor, while 800ug C/g is considered excellent. The goal is to achieve a 1:1 fungi-to-bacteria ratio. However, many sugarcane farms today measure between 50ug C/g and 150ug C/g, with a 0:1 fungi-to-bacteria ratio.
Aztec Dynamics supplied a nutritional bio-liquid fertilizer to a farmer, applying it during planting. Six weeks later, microbial biomass increased from 122ug C/g with a 0:1 ratio to 286ug C/g with a 0.3:1 ratio.
Fungi are key to creating humus, without them, soil leaching increases. Mycorrhizal fungi, which form symbiotic relationships with plant roots,
significantly boost the root surface area, increasing water and nutrient access.
The term “Mycorrhiza” was coined by 19th-century German biologist Albert B. Frank describes this vital partnership between fungi and plants.
Prep for the Wet:
• Focus on breaking down the trash blanket ASAP by applying products like Alltech Compost Aid, Alltech Soil Set and NTS Triacontanol. The trash blanket will become compost.
• Use foliar sprays like Alltech Grain Set and Rural Boss or Alltech Liquiplex to boost growth during the growing stage (chest high) before Christmas, and (optional) three months before cutting to enhance plant biomass if using ‘ripener’ or, two to three months without the ‘ripener’ treatment.
The positive thing about this recipe is there is no negative, it works if the rains come or not.
For more information or interested in purchasing products or services, visit www.aztecdynamics.com.au, or contact Mark Azzopardi on 0447 385 889
CANEGROWERS REMEMBERS PAUL SGARBOSSA
Paul Sgarbossa will be remembered as an enormous contributor to the sugarcane industry through his many years of selfless service. Paul passed away peacefully at home on 14 September aged 72.
Paul was an intrinsic member on the Inkerman Mill Suppliers Committee for 15 years, had 14 Years with Inkerman Cane Protection and Productivity Board and was a former Inkerman Cane Pest and Disease Control Board member, including 11 years as Chairman. He was Chairman of SRDC CP002 for three years, Chairman of the Cane Grub Steering Committee for Queensland and the Inaugural Chairman and Director of BPS, and Director of BSES.
Paul’s contributions were far and wide and what he is most renowned for is his work on assisting research into Greyback cane grub control methods and subsequent release of Suscon Blue, including product improvements which led to the sulphur coating
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of the granular. The Burdekin lost approximately 400,000t of cane, to cane grubs at their worst in the early 90’s, but once Paul had the grubs in his line of sight, there was no hope for them, and they could no longer rest comfortably in the ground as he championed a coordinated research and grass roots response to the problem.
Paul also played a role in assisting with the identification of causal organisms in Striaate Mosaic and fostered better collaboration with other Productivity Services and strongly advocated the successful Burdekin seedcane distribution to other areas.
Paul greatest loves were his family, friends, fishing and his beach house at Wujunga and was a man of principle and will be sorely missed by many. Thank you Paul for all that you did for the industry and our condolences to his wife Judy and their children and grandchildren.
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Next deadline is 23 October 2024
MOSSMAN—TULLY
Kubota B3150 cab a/c, 241hrs, hydrostatic, 4wd, 2 remotes, full cage, plus 700L croplands tank mounted on trailer plus 3 section ARAG controller, hyd mast and fold out boom, does 5 1.8m rows. Ph: 0429 332 731.
Kubota Zero Turn ZG 222 with Catcher 48" cut. Fiat 980 2WD – 3,500hrs, Fiat 1000 2WD – 5,000hrs, John Deere 4040 2WD – 3,600hrs, Chamberlain JD 4080 2 WD – 5,000hrs, Case 2590 2WD – 5,700hrs. Massey Ferguson 3635 4WD – 5,500hrs. Silvan Euro Spand CX2 spreader, portable bulk bin, Bunning Lowlander Mk 40-60 ag spreader (near new), complete tracks to suit cane harvester, and fuel trailer tank. Mulgrave area. Ph: 0407 160 673
1997 JD 7810 4x4, 7,896 hrs. Quade box, duals 20, 8 38, 70%. Intergrated JD auto steer, 2630 JD screen and JD 3000 RTK reciever. JD Q-hitch. In cab 10" monitor and rear camera. Tinted windows. Cab in good condition as per whole tractor. Total rebuild of rear end 2yrs ago, receipts available. Original owner. $100K + GST. International 1486 2wd cab tractor with double bin trail with 7,000L tank, honda pump and truck crane mounted, ideal for planting, $30k + GST. 120" howard rotaryhoe with roller and rippers, $15K + GST. HBM heavy duty billet planter, new dip, elev chains, drive shafts and bushes. New drive tyers. Stainless boxes, holds over half ton. Rear wheel steer. Tanks and PTO pump for tractor, $30K + GST. 2.5t Gessner fert box with double disc openers and 300L tank and tool bar attachment to fertise plant. On 3 point hitch. $25k + GST. Case 28 plate 770 offsets, new tyres with 30" round discs, fronts worn to 28" rear 30" with cover discs. 2 new spare 30" discs $20K + GST. Ph: 0428 682 886
Case/Stiger 9250 and 1200 Obryan ejector bucket. With cushion hitch. 6,366hrs. Fitted with T3rra cutta, I-Grade, Panasonic Tough Book 726hrs and JD 3000 SF1 cab receiver, no auto steer. Also have T3rra design software to transfer to your computer. Does not come with bucket receiver or in cab John Deere screen. Have an assortment of spare parts for bucket and tractor. All in working order ready to work. Selling as is where is. Ph: 0428 682 886
Set of half tracks to suit John Deere 3520 cane harvester. Ph: Ferdinand 0421 043 609
Expressions of Interest for shares. Email rigato.office@bigpond.com with offer or any questions.
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As new John Deere O Turn Z 720E, 350 hrs, 54" cut – $8,500 ONO. 1,300L Gal fire fighting trailer – $1,500 ONO. Case 580E front backhoe bucket – $500. 80" rotary hoe set up for min till – $500 ONO. Mulgrave area. Ph: 0407 675 361
2012 John Deere 7200R tractor PTO, 3PL with quick hitch, 4 sets of remotes, front weights, front tyres 540/65R34, rear tyres 650/85R38, 4,510hrs. In good condition. $160,000 + GST Ph: 0427 976 416
John Deere 31-40 turbo $24,000 + GST negotiable, Fergie TE20 $1,500 + GST. 2 x 400L poison tanks, price negotiable. Innisfail.Ph: Ces 0428 514 779
10ft galvanized superior slasher in good order. Ph: 0457 255 961.
Howard Rota Vator HR51 Rota. Ph: 0457 255 961
John Deere 4450 row crop spray tractor with 1150L chemical saddle tanks, included TPL 1150L Croplands electronic controlled spray tank with 11.5m hydraulic spray boom. Very good condition work ready. $44,000 plus GST Ph: 0427 030 063
One pair 21L-24 Armour earth moving/quarry tyres, currently on a backhoe. Good condition. $700 each tyre plus GST. Ph: 0419 150 350
2 x 440/65 R24 tractor tyres $1,100 inc. GST each. 2 x 540/65 R34 tractor tyres $2,100 inc. GST each. All four types as new only done 500hrs. Ph: 0427 665 759
36 plate case 770 offsets, 30" discs $40,000 and HBM plant cutter with topper $4,400. Ph: 0448 345 139
2006 Case IH JX109OU in good condition. Always serviced – 6,800hrs $24,200 (inc. GST). Tully area. Ph: 0427 665 759.
Tractor TE20 good condition $3,300 GST inclusive. Tractor AV International 130 with fertiliser equipment and scarifier $3,300 GST inclusive. Tractor AV International 140 with spray equipment $3,500 GST inclusive. Ph: 0428 183 307
Great Plains 6m 3PL planter, currently set up for zonal planting however have all units for solid planting, $20,000 + GST. Ph: Peter 0427 976 416
2021 Tatu heavy duty offset disc, 25 plate, 34 inch disc, brand new condition. $45,000. Ph: 0439 965 921.
Power harrow / airator for soil – fits on a rotary hoe $900. 2 old fertiliser box implements – each $300. 186 Ross Road Deeral. Ph: 0412 968 434
Harvester for sale. Babinda area. 2010 JD 3520 track harvester, 10,000 frame hrs. 1,200hrs since engine rebuild. 10 blade Twyford choppers. Base cutter box, turn table and chopper box, 300hrs use. D5 tracks. Ready to go. $180,000 and GST. Ph: 0439 676 186
Valley centre pivot 8 span all running gear tyres and rims $1,000 gearboxes $750, electrical motors and gear boxes $1,000 each ONO. 6 irvin spray legs $80 each, 2x torsion axles v-shape 2,200kg each $500 ONO. Ph: John 0418 198 177.
Cane stripper $500; Newton 4T tipper bins $4,000 each; Hardi spray tank 850L, 3-point linkage $5,000. All plus GST. Ph: 0429 653 461
6 cyl. Perkins turbo-charged motor, mounted on trailer to Kelly & Lewis water pump $5,500; 6T Newton bulk fertiliser bin $2,500. Please call after 7pm or txt 0402 686 714 / 0407 144 637.
2012 Case 8800 fulltrack cane harvester fitted with Trimble GPS and new walking gear. All in good condition. Mulgrave area. Ph: 0407 160 673
1980 Ford 7710, 4WD, 4 cyl, canopy, 5,323hrs, $21,000. 1960 Inter tractor 574, 2WD, 4 cyl, canopy, $9,500. 1960 Inter tractor 574, 2WD, 4 cyl, canopy, 4,891hrs, $7,950. 1975 Cat D3 dozer, angle tilt blade, 4 cyl, hyd tow hitch, root rake blade, 4,836hrs, $51,900. 2010 Kubota ME9000, 4WD, cab with trimble with GFX-750 GPS, 5,031 hrs, total for both $47,900. 2018 Kubota, 4WD, M7040, 4 cyl, canopy, 482hrs, $46,900. Ph: Mark 0427 017 717
Fertiliser bin M.S.W, double row, 4 tonne stainless bin, with double compartment and 4 cutters $25,000 (inc. GST). Ph: 0400 729 457
Howard rotary hoe, crumble roller, serial 060301095, $24,500. 2006 Case iH 7700 full track harvester, Iveco 10.3 litre, 6 cyl motor, 2,912hrs, $156,000. 1976 rear feed whole stick planter, s/s fertiliser boxes and chutes, 2x200L spray tanks with 4 sprays, hydraulic ram trailer hitch, $4,250. 1990 8-ton bulk fertiliser bin, 3 easy chute doors, 4 stands for storage, $5,150. Ph: Romy 0467 198 700
Heavy duty two tines (legs) to suit rotary hoe $1,000 inc. GST. Ph: 0438 988 858. 2022 Case 9900 cane harvester. Ph: Craig 0436 332 044
Liquid fertiliser applicator croplands rate controler, adjustable centres and new pump. Ph: Craig 0436 332 044
Service unit/fuel tanker, flat 115-90 4wd tactor set up with hitch and brakes. 4,500L diesel fuel tank. 2,000L aluminium water tank, many more extas. Phone for more details. Ph: Craig 0436 332 044
Bonel whole stick harvester / double fan cane stripper / four trailers. Ph: 07 4056 1742
2 x 480/70R34 tractor tyres. 5 years old. 95% rubber. 1 tyre needs minor repair. $1,000 (inc. GST) for both tyres. Tully. Ph: 0408 728 072
Hydraulic spraying machine – high rise diesel motor, 1,600L stainless steel tank $25,000 + GST. Ph: Tim 0428 183 307
Olympic 20.8.42 65% $500+ GST; front end loader with 4 in 1 bucket, blasted and 2pac painted, resembling required. $4500+GST Ph: 0437 434 280
Babinda area – 2006 Case 7700 track harvester. 10.3L Iveco motor 3,500hrs. Very good condition. Ph: 0467 198 700 AH 4067 1498
2012 Case 8800 fulltrack cane harvester fitted with Trimble GPS and new walking gear. All in good condition. Near new 6t side tipper. Mulgrave area. Ph: 0407 160 673
Hi-rise spray tractor MF35x. Unfinished project comes with 1,200L S/S tank, boom and droppers are made but not fitted 5 rows or 7 over the top. Has power steering not fitted and a new ROPS, canopy and seat. Lots of other extras included. $18,000 plus GST ONO. Heavy duty frame with Coulters off the old Aqua-Ammonia applicators. Could easily turn into ripper coulter implement. $500 plus GST. Ph: Jason 0417 622 129, caruzin@bigpond.com
Massey Ferguson 165 tractor runs well, draw bar, roll bar, P.T.O works well. Steering needs repairs. $1,700 ONO. Ph: 0429 771 209
Herbert River 4 tonne Newton tipper hooked to 4280 Chamberlain tractor. Will separate if required. Ideal for billet planting. Ph: 0416 174 014
BT D6 Dozer, high lift, angle and tilt blade, five roller, 14" tracks, make an offer. Ph: 0438 743 685
Rainfall Report
3 point linkage international plough, 4 furrows, 1 drag plough – 3 furrows, self lift. Make an offer. Ph: 0438 743 685
2017 Isuzu dmax dual cab with alloy tray, 67,400km, new tyres, rwc, one owner in VGC. $43,000 ONO. Ph: 0438 821 683
LD3 Moore scoop 4WD in fair condition, runs good, brakes need help. Ph: after 6.30pm 07 4777 6148.
1997 Fiat Agri Genius 190. Good condition, one owner, Hyd toplink, hubs for dwels – 5,200hrs. Ph: 0419 666 544.
Massey Ferguson 165 tractor runs well, draw bar, roll bar, P.T.O works well. Steering needs repairs. $1,700 ONO. Ph: 0429 771 209
MACKAY—PROSERPINE
AutoFarm A5 GPS unit $5,000 (+GST). Ph: 0417 158 656 for more details.
Massey Ferguson 2640, 2WD, air cab, 4,600hrs, good condition, surplus to needs, $15,000 ONO. Ph: 0438 545 251
3 x 26 inch McLeod stool splitter assemblies with fertiliser and confidor tubes. Ph: 0427 593 848
Jarrett offsets 28 x 24 inch discs. $6,500 plus GST. Ph: 0427 593 848
Case IH JX 110 tractor 110hp, 2021 model. Air-conditioned cab. 580hrs. Farm sold, no longer needed. Immaculate condition. $63,800 inc. GST. Negotiable. Located in Mackay area. Ph: 0427 752 376
2 tractor tyres 18-4-38, 75% rubber –$600 Each. 1 plant cane or return grubber 14 tine 1200. A hodge plant cutter and two fan blower –$1,000. 1 Yedder 6 wheel on 3-point linkage frame for plant cane –$1,800. Ph: 0448 605 722
185 altas copco compressor on towable trailer, just had new turbo fitted and cup link between motor and compressor, cost $6,000 to repair. Ready to go – $8,500. Good unit for blowing down harvesters or sandblasting. Sandblasting unit also available and hoses – $2,500. Ph: 0488 605 722
1973 Ford 5 thousand 2-wheel drive Y series tractor for sale, 75 horsepower, with power steering, new ROPS, new seat, one set of remotes, 8430 tyres – 90% rubber on front and 80% on back and 3-point linkage. Always sheded, kept neat and tidy, always serviced and oil dropped every 100hrs. Ph: 0459 596 782 for price.
Case Maxxum 140Hp tractor with front end loader with 4-in-1 bucket and forks/Jib. Near new condition 168hrs. $140,000 ONO inc. GST. Howard 7ft slasher, good condition $11,000 inc. GST. Ph: 0418 770 218
Schneider Star Delta starter $1,900 ONO Ph: 0447 733 366
L & L Wilkinson Haulage Pty Ltd widening drop deck and A trailer. Transporting cane harvesters. Farm machinery. Farm implements. Pilot. Ph: Lee Wilkinson 0427 474 064
Massey Ferguson 178 tractor with multi-power wet brakes, low hour fully reconditioned engine, good tyres all round. 800L Hardy boom spray tank. Ph: 0417 612 883 for price.
2 x planting 2.5t tipper bins $3,000 each ONO. Ph: 0437 649 296
Massey Ferguson 8110 4-wheel drive with cab, 135hp, only 2,636hrs in good condition. $55,000 inc. GST. Celli Tiger spike hoe, 2.5m wide with hydraulic crumble roller and oil cooler. VGC. Don Mizzi 741 model on Fiat 750 special turbo plus MF102 half-tracks to suit. 12t self-propelled 6x6 elev infielder. VGC. 6t side tipper on Leyland tandem. GC. Mackay. Ph: 0438 606 578
6 rear wheel weights for New Holland TM155. Ph: Keith on 0448 057 574 or Brock Shailer on 0439 113 511
Hodge side dresser fertiliser box – with 4 front fertilizer coulters, 2 centre rippers with crumble rollers and centre drawbar at rear. Also can be used as a soil buster. Dimensions 1.7m to 2.05m. G.C. In the Mackay area. $9,000 + GST. Ph: 0408 874 974 or 0418 874 974.
John Deere 6520se fwd 5,100hrs, new ac power quad. Tyres 70% presents as a very clean and tidy tractor price $60,000 inc. GST neg. VGC. Ph: 0438 424 538
Trailco 110 x 360m hard hose irrigator $23,000 inc. GST. Koumala. Ph: 0429 027 377
Pegorano power harrow 100 inch. $35,00 inc. GST. Koumala. Ph: 0429 027 377
125mm Southern Cross hard hose irrigator in good condition. 350m hose. $30,000 inc. GST. Ph: 0428 768 533
Various farm implements: Hodge 4-furrow reversible plough. 3 row McLeod multi weeder rake. Two tyres and rims to suit fiat 1000 and 1300. Agri/Master; CB538 size 24.5/32R/1 12 ply. Ph: 0417 612 883
GPS Autosteer kits and base station can be fitted to any tractor, FJ Dynamics brand, $15,000 excl GST. Ph: 0401 847 162
60HP Western Electric motor, foot and flange $2,750. Ph: 0417 158 656
Double row McLeod fertiliser box with various sprockets for various applications. Ph: 0417 612 883 for price.
Massey Ferguson harvester 102 base cutter box. Ph: 4954 1174 for price.
Elevator chains for 102. Ph: 4954 1174 for price.
4,000L of 50/50 diesel/petrol mix suitable for Firebug burners or parts washing Ph: 0411 196 860
Water meter never used Siemens brand (no before or after the meter pipework required) 150mm flanged, table D/E. Ph: 0411 196 860
Pegoraro 120 inch rotary hoe in good condition. Ph: 0417 542 783 for price.
3 point linkage cane topper. Ph: 0417 542 783 for price.
6 and 8 inch cast iron flanged gate valves. New never used. Ph: 0411 196 860.
2 fan stripper $500. Moller single chain planter $4,000. Roberts 6T goose neck trailer $5,000. grubber and box $300. Hodge upright planter $3,000. Ph: 0408 776 336 or 4959 1765 after 7pm.
BUNDABERG—ROCKY POINT
Gessner 1.5t stool splitter good condition $33,000. Toft J150 whole stick harvester modified to load onto planter trailers. $5,500. Bonel trash stripper fan always shedded good condition. $660. Don whole stick trash planter has fert boxes, water tanks (may need some repair) and suscon applicator, no trailers. $1,100. Croplands $1,100 tank and frame. No pump or boom. $4,400. Ph: 0427 769 086
2 Farmall AMD tractors tin work is no good engines have been open to rain have 1 good engine to go with or separately. Best offers. International B 414 engine open to rain. Best offers. Volvo BM 4400 front end loader. Good brakes and hand brake 14,000hrs works well + spares. $38,500. Ph: 0427 769 086
Komatsu PC 228 US-3 22T excavator 8,000hrs. Tilt hitch lots of buckets, hammer etc, some rust and panel damage. Mechanically sound has been used for contracting. $66,000 for machine and 1 bucket. Extra buckets by negotiation. White Road Boss air bag rear suspensionIn excellent condition $44,000 Drake low loader with top deck. Elevator stand, non widening, 17.5 rims. Excellent condition. Could use paint. $44,000. Ph: 0427 769 086
White Centurion center point suspension bogey tipper 2 way tailgate and electric tarp. Excellent condition. $44,000. JD cotton picker 40,00hrs with rear wheel assist, was going to use for a sprayer. Offers. Prices include GST. Ph: 0427 769 086.
Plant cane cultivator 2 x 1.6m row w/ 3 weeder rakes and tines $1,320 inc. GST, land plane w/ 4m. hyd. blade $3,300 incl GST, 2x1.6m. row cultivator w/ 10 x 30ml. tines $1,320 inc. GST. 4 wheel trash rake $ 1,110 inc. GST. Ph: 0408 761 463
2011 John Deere 3520 trac harvester. Machine has new tracks, new elevator chain and floors, 2 x new plastic extractor hoods. Some pumps rebuilt and some replaced. Engine rebuilt and plantary hubs replaced. Machine repainted –very tidy machine. Ph: 0413 584 728. Ford 6600 tractor $6,000. Ph: 0403 064 708
7485 MF tractor tier 3 with Dyna VT transmission and hi lift double 6T side tipper. Bundaberg. Ph: 0413 698 922 or 0427 561 072
Rotary hoe 90 degree blades to suit Maschio G series rotary hoe. Brand new. These normally sell at $20 each new but are for sale at $6 each. There are currently 72 left hand and 72 right hand blades available. Ph: 0402 993 500
Trash incorporator and a coulter ripper in reasonable working condition. Tully area. Ph: 0419 644 352
6 rear wheel weights for New Holland TM155. Ph: Keith on 0448 057 574 or Brock Shailer on 0439 113 511
HBM billet planter. Ph: 0429 651 233
2 off JD rims (flange type 16in x 42in) with or without tyres. Size 480/80 R42 to suit JD7520 12 bolt 855PCD cast centre. Mareeba District. Ph: 0407 963 040
Rotary hoe 120" to 140", prefer Howard. Spray unit with Irvin boom or similar 600L plus. Maryborough area. Ph: Roger 0419 788 376
Wanting 100 to 120 hp 6 cylinder 4x4 tractor. Eg, (Ford tw 20., Fiat, case ih, basic old tractor. Mossman, Herbert, Mackay (for Ingham). Ph: Lloyd 0439 375 301
Shredder topper suit John Deere or Case or Toft or Bowder. Any condition. Ph: 0413 584 728.
Double or triple tipper bin for NSW planting season. Happy to transport from QLD for the right unit. Contact: mildon.park@bigpond.com or Richard 0412 156 622
18.4-38 tyre/s. Plane Creek area. Ph: 0458 121 546
Ferguson TE 20 with V8 Ford flattop engine, ½ tracks to suit Ferguson tractor, TE 20 Ferguson with reduction gearbox, Chrighton whole stick harvester with or without tractor. Mulgrave area. Ph: 0427 565 511
2.5 tonne or similar tipper bins suitable for billet planter. Mulgrave area. Ph: John 0427 563 318
Austoft/Case wheel harvester 1995 to 2006 model. Any area. Ph: 0417 193 385
4.5'' Layflat hose in good condition. 200-250m. Ph: 0419 952 119.
New Holland 8970 tractor suitable for wrecking. Contact: 0419 710 280 or tctownley@bigpond.com
All panels for Fiat 780. Mackay / Sarina area. Ph: 0438 421 217
1x Ford 6600 or Ford 7600 two-wheel drive tractor. Ph: 0439 591 455
6 FT 3 point linkage grader blade in reasonable condition. Bundaberg area. Ph: 0478 228 375
Hi clearance spray tractor. Must be a trike and must have air con cab. Send photos and information to 0407 639 985
Tractor with FEL 100-140 HP up to $50k. NQLD area. Ph: Peter 0427 760 449
PROPERTY—FOR SALE
Cane farm Halifax total area 217 ha, CPA 126.4 ha. 2 minutes from Taylors Beach and 20 mins from Ingham CBD. Includes large machinery shed which has 3 phase power and water plus 2 smaller sheds. Price $1.62 million. For inspections contact Felix Reitano Real Estate on (07) 4776 5007 or email felix@reitano.com.au
288 acres 35 minutes South of Maryborough, 200 acres under cane. Permanent creek with underground mains 4 bedroom timber home 12x9m shed with 3 phase power. Ph: 0407 398 852
PROPERTY WANTED
Looking to purchase a sugar cane farm in Proserpine or surrounding area. Require land only no house needed. Ph: 0451 272 057
Want to buy farm in Victoria Plains, Eton, Pleystowe area. Ph: 049 00 29 387
Wanted permanent purchase Lower Mary River. Water allocations on Mary River, Tinana Creek and channel pipeline sections of the scheme. Ph: 0427 930 696
LIQUAFORCE – COMMITTED TO SUSTAINABLE COASTAL FARMING
LIQUAFORCE BIG SHOT
LIQUID IS...THE FUTURE IN FERTILISING
WANT AN ECONOMICAL & ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS FERTILISER OPTION WITH SOIL SUPPORT AND PLANT STIMULANTS? YOU WANT LIQUAFORCE BIGSHOT!
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Flexible and adaptable, BigShot offers growers the option of adding additional trace elements to support specific soil and crop requirements.
But don’t take our word for it. BigShot is backed by independent research by the University of Southern Queensland to reduce nitrogen leaching by 17% to help the microbial slow release of nitrogen
