I'm thrilled to announce that CANEGROWERS has officially launched our new suite of educational resources to bring sugarcane back into Queensland classrooms. These resources will help students learn about the importance of sugarcane farming and its role in our economy and communities.
We’ve worked hard to create engaging and informative content for teachers and students, aiming to inspire the next generation of industry champions. Check out the resources on our website and share them with your local schools. Read more here
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Securing a disaster funding boost
CANEGROWERS, working closely with QFF and other commodity groups, successfully secured a major boost in disaster recovery funding earlier this month. The increase, from $25,000 to $75,000 for growers impacted by recent flooding in North Queensland, reflects the rising costs growers face when rebuilding after extreme weather events.
We advocated strongly for this increase, ensuring growers have the support they need to recover and keep their businesses running. This is a big win for our industry, and we’ll continue working to protect growers' interests when it comes to disaster recovery.
Read more here
Election nominations closing soon
Don't forget - nominations for the CANEGROWERS elections close at 5pm on Monday 24 March (the day after you receive this email). This is your chance to step up and have a direct say in the future of our industry. If you're passionate about representing your fellow growers and driving change, now is the time to put your hand up. Full details are available on our website.
Last chance for member survey — win big
Please don't forget to complete the 2025 CANEGROWERS member survey. I realise not everybody enjoys completing surveys, but your feedback helps us advocate better and improve member services. Plus, you could win a $1,500 gift card or one of ten $50 gift cards.
The survey closes on 28 March, so please take a few minutes to have your say - your voice matters. To access the survey, click here or use the QR code above.
TRADE
It's been a busy month on the trade front. Recently, CANEGROWERS met with Guatemalan and Brazilian industry representatives to align strategies ahead of the March WTO Committee on Agriculture meeting where we will question India's plan for subsidised sugar exports in 2025.
We also took part in a National Farmers' Federation briefing on US tariffs, which remain uncertain after recent reversals. We’ll keep pushing to protect growers’ interests on the global stage.
Sugar Cubed – don't miss out!
Time is running out to grab your tickets for Sugar Cubed 2025. This premier industry event is a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow growers and industry leaders. We have an impressive lineup of speakers, including industry experts and business leaders who will share valuable insights on the future of sugarcane farming, global trade, and market opportunities. Sugar Cubed is more than just a conference - it’s a chance to network, gain new perspectives, and celebrate the strength of our industry.
Sugar Cubed will be held right before the Australian Society of Sugar Cane Technologists (ASSCT) conference, giving you the chance to attend both key industry events in one trip. Plus, it coincides with the NRL Magic Round in Brisbane - the perfect way to cap off a productive week with some top-class footy.
Secure your spot now - tickets are going fast.
Next Ratoon mentoring program kicks off
The 2025 Next Ratoon mentoring program is underway. Six young growers from across Queensland have been matched with experienced mentors to develop their leadership and business skills. This six-month program is a vital part of strengthening the next generation of industry leaders. We’re excited to watch their progress and see the benefits flow back into the industry. We'll keep you posted in upcoming issues of the Australian Canegrowers magazine.
MIS Podcast
What's happening on the world sugar market? Well, with Trump's tariff rollercoaster hurtling along at breakneck speed it can be hard to keep up. But CANEGROWERS' resident market experts Dougall Lodge and Doug Morrow will try to get to grips with where we stand in this new format Marketing Information Services podcast update.
Your retirement roadmap with ART webinar
While managing the daily challenges of life, it's easy to lose track of your personal super. With so much focus on the present, planning for the future can often take a back seat.
In this live webinar with Australian Retirement Trust’s Education Lead, Steven Fehring, we’ll guide you through key steps to help you stay on track for the retirement you want. We’ll cover:
- How the Age pension works
- How much you need for a comfortable retirement
- How to add money to your super, and
- Estate planning and asset considerations.
There will be an opportunity for you to ask questions at the end of the session.
Date: Tuesday, 15 April 2025
Time: 10:00am – 10:45am (AEST) including Q&A