The meeting that changed Queensland’s sugar industry

At the time, sugar was one of Queensland’s most important industries, so central to the state’s economy that it featured on the Queensland coat of arms.  

For growers on the ground, however, the outlook was far from secure. Returns were under pressure, and they had little influence over prices or decisions beyond the farm gate. 

In some districts, growers were already organised locally, but the Mackay meeting marked a clear shift in thinking.  

Media reports from the period show delegates debating familiar issues – fair returns, transparency, transport and the balance of power across the industry – and reaching the view that a stronger, united approach was needed. 

The meeting resolved to establish a single statewide organisation to represent growers collectively, appointing Mackay grower George Johnson as CANEGROWERS’ first Chairman. 

One hundred years on, current CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said the decision made in Mackay in 1926 reshaped how growers engaged with the industry. 

“Those growers understood they needed more than individual voices,” Mr Menkens said. “By coming together, they gave themselves the strength to be heard and the ability to influence their future.” 

That principle has guided CANEGROWERS through a century of change, Mr Menkens said. 

“A century on, CANEGROWERS still exists to stand up for growers and make sure they are treated fairly,” he said.  

“Over that time, we’ve helped guide the industry through world wars, economic upheaval, policy reform, market deregulation, natural disasters and major technological change.” 

Looking ahead, Mr Menkens said the industry was entering another period of evolution, with new opportunities emerging alongside familiar challenges. 

“The industry has never stood still, and it won’t now,” he said. “From diversification and new revenue streams to bioenergy and the broader bioeconomy, growers are already adapting, and CANEGROWERS will continue to play a key role in helping guide the industry through what comes next.” 

CANEGROWERS’ centenary will be marked throughout 2026 with events in cane-growing districts across Queensland, culminating in a state centenary gala dinner at Brisbane City Hall in October. 

Pictured: The first meeting of the Queensland Cane Growers’ Council was held on 21 January 1926 at the Boys’ School in Mackay, under the chairmanship of the Hon. W. Forgan Smith, as President of the Council of Agriculture.

(Front, left to right): A.J. Christensen (Bundaberg), W. Kittle (Southern), George Johnson (Chairman) (Mackay), A.J. Draper (Cairns), W.H. Doherty (General Secretary), Miss I. Johnson (Stenographer)
(Back row, left to right) Inset: J.J. Carster (Innisfail), W.H. Ferguson (Burdekin), R. Ruge (Proserpine), who replaced W.B. Biggs (inset right), T.A. Beattie (Maryborough), W.H. Tooth (Herbert River)