A century of cane and community

While the past year has had its fair share of challenges, there’s plenty to be quietly optimistic about as we head into 2026. 

One particularly exciting milestone is just around the corner for Queensland’s sugarcane industry, with next year marking 100 years since the formation of CANEGROWERS.

For a century, the organisation has been part of the fabric of regional Queensland - shaped by farming families, small towns and communities that grew up around cane fields and sugar mills. It’s a story tied closely to the development of many parts of the state.

To mark the occasion, centenary events will be held right across Queensland, with local CANEGROWERS districts planning their own celebrations. If sugarcane is part of your region’s story, chances are there’ll be something happening close to home.

There are also two major events planned at a state level. The first will be held in Mackay in March, in partnership with the local CANEGROWERS office. That’s fitting, because Mackay is where the organisation first met back in 1926, when growers came together to speak with a stronger, united voice.

Later in the year, the celebrations will move to Brisbane, with a centenary event at Brisbane City Hall, alongside a public industry display in King George Square. It will be a chance to share the industry’s story with the wider community.

A central part of the centenary will be recognising the “Legends of Cane Country” – people from across Queensland who’ve helped shape the industry over the past 100 years. 

Growers and members of the public are being encouraged to nominate a Legend from their district, helping ensure important contributions don’t go unrecognised.

Throughout the year, a range of print, digital, photographic and video projects will also roll out, highlighting the industry’s history, its communities and the families behind it. You’ll see those shared through CANEGROWERS’ website and social media channels.

As we look ahead, I hope 2026 brings a bit of calm, a bit of progress and plenty to be proud of. All the best for the New Year.