100 Years of CANEGROWERS

Born out of necessity

The need for strong grower representation was recognised well before CANEGROWERS formally existed.

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, cane growers were independent operators, carving farms from dense scrub and planting cane by hand. 

That independence came at a cost, with growers often left as price-takers between mill owners and rising costs - prompting the formation of local associations.

The Growers’ Voice

From early publications to statewide representation, growers built a collective voice to share experience, debate priorities and influence decisions that shaped the industry. 

Through print and organised representation, that voice helped connect districts and ensure growers’ perspectives were heard beyond the farm gate.

Advocacy to Action

For a century, CANEGROWERS has existed to turn representation into results. From early battles over pricing to modern legislative reform, the organisation has consistently focused on outcomes that matter to growers.

In recent decades, that role has become more complex – and more important – as the industry navigated deregulation, consolidation and global competition.

Fair Returns & Pricing Power

From the earliest days of Queensland’s sugar industry, the price paid for cane has been a matter of survival. Growers quickly learned that without collective representation, they had little leverage with mill owners.

For a century, CANEGROWERS has played a central role in securing fairer pricing, transparency and accountability – ensuring growers have a voice in decisions shaping their livelihoods.

Collective Resilience

From extreme weather and price collapse to deregulation and reform, Queensland cane growers have repeatedly faced challenges that could not be met alone. 

Time and again, collective action helped share risk, support recovery and strengthen the industry through periods of profound change.

Mechanising the industry

One of the greatest challenges faced by Queensland sugarcane growers was labour.

During and after World War II, severe shortages threatened the harvest itself, making mechanisation essential to the industry’s survival. CANEGROWERS played a central role in driving that transition from the early 1940s.

Bulk Sugar Terminals

Queensland’s bulk sugar terminals connect growers and mills to global markets through an industry-owned export system. Funded by growers, the shift to bulk handling transformed efficiency and strengthened Queensland’s international position.

In the late 1990s, ownership transferred from government to industry, with grower interests represented through CANEGROWERS.