Annual Report 2023-24

Industry

Farm Inputs Committee Activities

Keeping the industry moving

From making sure that growers are paid fairly for their cane to focusing on the future sustainability of the entire Queensland sugarcane industry, CANEGROWERS committed significant resources in 2023-24 to undertaking projects and programs that ensure the best possible outcome for growers. A brief description of significant areas of work is outlined below. A full report can be found in the 2023-24 CANEGROWERS Annual Report, available on the Members Portal.

Cane Analysis
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The Cane Analysis Auditors program provided advisory services, workshops, and audit reviews, ensuring compliance with cane analysis requirements essential for growers' payments.

Cane Burning
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For cane burning, CANEGROWERS maintained the Notification for Burning Sugar Cane in collaboration with Queensland Fire and Emergency Services. Growers were encouraged to obtain permits when uncertain if conditions could be met.

Disaster Management
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In disaster management, CANEGROWERS participated in recovery efforts after Cyclone Jasper and advocated for extended assistance grants. They also contributed to the review of Queensland's drought response, transitioning to a loan-based system requiring a Business Resilience Plan.

Diversification
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Diversification efforts following the Sugar Plus Roadmap promoted policies to enable alternative uses of sugarcane and income sources, focusing on bioenergy and renewable products. CANEGROWERS engaged in biofuel projects and policy discussions to leverage sugarcane as a feedstock.

Harvesting Risk
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To address harvesting risk, CANEGROWERS conducted a district survey and collaborated with SRA to improve understanding of harvesting economics and promote successful business structures.

Business Essentials
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CANEGROWERS delivered the Business Essentials workshop series, funded by the Queensland Government, focusing on risk preparedness, financial management, sugar pricing strategies, and farm business planning. Seventy-two participants attended sessions aimed at enhancing strategic thinking and investment.

Industry Sustainability
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On industry sustainability, CANEGROWERS worked on sustainability reporting and ESG compliance, promoting Smartcane BMP's role in meeting environmental and social standards.

Transport
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For transport, CANEGROWERS led a load restraint task force and developed a cane loading guideline to address compliance challenges.

Workforce Development
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Workforce development initiatives included a national jobs board and training programs to address skill gaps, particularly in haulout driver training.

Workplace Health & Safety
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For workplace safety, CANEGROWERS updated safety guidelines and ensured compliance with new regulations.

RD&E
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In research, development, and extension, CANEGROWERS collaborated with SRA to enhance research funding and strategic planning, addressing project backlogs and participating in the development of a ten-year R&D plan.