Well, how time flies when you're having fun, or navigating the rollercoaster of 2020 and beyond! Can you believe it's already been three years since we embarked on this wonderful journey together, bringing you Mackay and Whitsunday Life?

Launching our publication amidst the chaos and uncertainty of 2020 was like sailing through uncharted waters, but we held on tight for an exhilarating ride which has now captivated our local community for three years. I didn’t things could get much weirder than what happened during the pandemic, yet here we are, only this week talking about aliens following the Congressional hearing on UAPs and UFOs in the United States last week.

But, forget the aliens, in other breaking news, we are about to launch our third newspaper, Burdekin Life, in a little over a month in September. So, when you are next making the trek up north through Ayr and Home Hill, keep an eye out for the familiar masthead as we deliver another regional community voice to Queensland.

We couldn't have made it this far without the fantastic support from the Mackay and Whitsundays communities. You've welcomed us with open arms, embracing our free community newspaper with so much warmth and enthusiasm. You've been the wind beneath our wings, and we are eternally grateful.

To our loyal readers, you are the heartbeat of our newspaper. Your passion for staying informed and connected with your community keeps us going strong. Whether you're enjoying a quiet coffee at home or catching up with friends at the local cafe, we hope you find a moment to dive into the pages of Mackay and Whitsunday Life, where stories of triumphs, local heroes, and all things community await you.

And let's not forget our local businesses, who have been true champions through thick and thin. Your support, through advertising and partnerships, has been the lifeline that helped us navigate the uncharted waters of publishing in uncertain times. We couldn't have asked for better mates to sail this sea with.

As we blow out the candles on our third birthday cake, we're humbled by the friendships we've formed, the stories we've shared, and the sense of community that fills these pages. With every issue, we aim to bring a smile to your face, a touch of inspiration, and the joy of connecting with your fellow neighbours.

So, cheers to three years of Mackay and Whitsunday Life! Now, let's raise a toast to the future, with more adventures, laughter, and, who knows, maybe even a visit from some friendly extraterrestrial neighbours. Here's to thriving together in this incredible community we call home.

Thank you, Mackay! You make every moment worth the journey.

With gratitude and a sprinkle of stardust from a galaxy far, far away,

Amanda

‍

A Hay Point man has been identified as one of three victims following a triple-fatal car crash on the Bruce Highway at Federal, west of Noosa, on Friday, July 21.

The family of 65-year-old retiree Terry Bishop paid tribute to the husband, father and grandfather after he was killed when his car hit another car head-on.

“Our family is absolutely devastated,” Mr Bishop’s family said in a statement.

“He is a man that would always go out of his way to help anyone in need.

“He leaves behind a wife, daughter, son and five young grandchildren who all loved him dearly.

“Our hearts go out to the other victims' families and the first responders in this horrific tragedy.”

The statement confirmed that Mr Bishop, a former long-term resident of Brisbane suburb Northgate, was travelling to Brisbane on Friday, July 21 to attend a family member’s wedding the day following the incident.

It is believed that Mr Bishop stopped to assist 25-year-old Yandina resident Gypsy Satterley in the early hours of Friday morning.

Mr Bishop allegedly picked up Ms Satterley when his car was then allegedly chased and knocked into oncoming traffic by a stolen vehicle operated by 25-year-old Rafferty Rolfe who police say had been in a relationship with Ms Satterley.

The stolen vehicle was seen trying to ram Mr Bishop's car when they crossed into oncoming traffic and collided with a third vehicle driven by 38-year-old alpaca farmer Jessica Townley.

Mr Bishop, Ms Satterley and Ms Townley died at the scene while Mr Rolfe was arrested and rushed to hospital.

The Yandina man faces a range of charges including three counts of murder, armed robbery, dangerous operations of a car, stealing, evading police, and driving without a licence.

‍

‍

Hay Point resident Terry Bishop was travelling to Brisbane when he was involved in a triple-fatal car crash. Photo supplied

‍

In the heart of Mackay, an organisation dedicated to making a difference has been quietly supporting regional patients traveling to Townsville for leukaemia treatment. The Queensland Freemasons Village, managed by the Leukaemia Foundation, stands as a comforting haven for hundreds of patients who have journeyed to Townsville Hospital for treatment over the years.

With deep roots in the community, Calen Hamilton Lodge, in collaboration with Mackay, Moranbah, and Proserpine District Lodges, and Hand Heart Pocket, stepped up last year to provide significant support to the Village. Together, they donated just over $40,000, contributing to the renovation of the gym with new carpeting and the purchase of 18 TVs and dining tables, ensuring each room in the accommodation precinct was comfortable and inviting.

The longstanding partnership between the Freemasons and the Leukaemia Foundation dates back to 2002 when they jointly financed the construction of the original nine units. Recognising the increasing demand, they collaborated again in 2013 to add additional units. Mackay District Masonic Lodges have been unwavering in their support since the Village's inception, ensuring the units are well-maintained, and the families who utilize them experience a high standard of comfort during their stay.

Among the generous donors is Mrs. Alma Blake, whose late husband, Bro John Blake, has inspired her ongoing support to Calen-Hamilton Masonic Lodge for the benefit of the Townsville accommodation precinct.

“It is always very moving to hear from families who are going through a stressful period, thank the Freemasons for their support to be able to stay at the Village for long periods of time at no cost for their loved one to receive treatment at the Townsville Hospital," Mackay Freemason Graham Townsend said.

"It has always been a great pleasure to work with the Manager Marie Morris for the last 21 years and Marie keeps us informed of what is required for the units from time to time to keep the units of a high quality," he said.

‍

‍

L-R: Wor Bro Ray Graham Walkerston 482, RW Bro Graham Townsend

OSB Calen-Hamilton 395, Manager Marie Morris, MW Grand Master Jeff Harper

‍

In a major development, Bonza Airlines is set to expand its operations with the addition of direct flights from Mackay to the Gold Coast, with the airline confirming flights will be departing before Christmas.

The Gold Coast Airport will become Bonza's third base, with two aircraft designated for these new routes. Travellers will have access to 11 existing Bonza destinations, including Albury, Bundaberg, Cairns, Gladstone, Melbourne Avalon, Melbourne Tullamarine, Mildura, Rockhampton, Townsville, and the Whitsunday Coast.

Starting fares for these flights are expected to range from $49 to $79 per person one way. The flights will be available for purchase through the airline's exclusive app, offering direct bookings.

Tim Jordan, CEO of Bonza said the announcement is about creating more depth in Bonza’s network by connecting existing destinations with the Gold Coast.

“It is a huge boost for the economy and allows people in our existing destinations the opportunity to book an affordable flight to Gold Coast Airport and take a much-deserved holiday or long-awaited visit to friends and family,” he said.

The airline says there will be additional and new destinations that will connect with the Gold Coast and those will be revealed when the time is right.

“We’ll be adding new destinations to our route map that will fly from the Gold Coast and we continue to welcome conversations with airports around the country as we fulfil our mission to connect communities.”

This next phase of Bonza’s growth will see 70 new flights per week and almost 700,000 additional passenger seats a year into and out of Gold Coast Airport.

Initially, Bonza will partner with an airline wet lease provider to enable families to holiday and connect with each other over Christmas and peak school holidays at a time when global aircraft supply is challenged.

Mr Jordan said recruitment for roles at the Gold Coast will commence soon.

“Our new base means pilots and cabin crew who live here can come home after a day’s flying and enjoy the lifestyle that the region has to offer.”

‍

‍

CEO of Bonza Tim Jordan and Queensland Airports Limited CEO Amelia Evans

‍

Bodybuilding Bronze For Aussie Couple

Ken Ware grew up in the tropical north Queensland heat but said nothing compared to the humidity he experienced in Mexico.

The prominent medical practitioner, now based on the Gold Coast, was recently in Central America with his wife, Nickie, competing in the World Fitness Federation Universe, often considered the pinnacle of the bodybuilding calendar.

For the 66-year-old, it was his first competition since 2008, while Mrs Ware also recently returned to competition after a 12-year hiatus.

Born and bred in Mackay, Mr Ware started bodybuilding while playing rugby league for Brothers in 1982, entering his first competition in Brisbane in 1983.

“Coming from Mackay, to go down to Brisbane to compete against the who’s who was a big ask but I actually won that competition and came second in Australia in my first outing.”

That’s what started what Mr Ware called a “whirlwind run”, achieving high rankings and impressive results across the world, all the while living in north Queensland, where he later met Mrs Ware.

“I was completely alienated from the bodybuilding fraternity, so it made it special,” he said.

“Mackay has that thing about it, there’s people I grew up with who have gone on to achieve great things, so it just has that atmosphere that keeps you very humble.”

Mr Ware’s journey led him to winning the title of Mr Universe in 1994 which, other than competing in Australian Titles in 2008, was the last time he’d competed before this year’s titles.

“It was a big break, but we know what we’re doing, we’re always healthy and well and doing lots of good training so we didn’t have to change too much,” he said.

“We feel very enthused now, all those memories start to come back, and it makes me feel much, much younger.”

The pair spent two weeks in Mexico preparing and competing, Mr Ware in the ‘Grandmasters’ and Mrs Ware in ‘Super Bodies’, both earning themselves bronze medals.

“It was great to be up and compete in a Universe again and experience the vibe of the competition,” Mr Ware said.

“It was a really high standard.

“We came back and we’re looking almost better two weeks later than we did on competition day so that’s given us the incentive to dig in.

“I’m very excited about Nickie’s future and that keeps me on task as well.”

With a reinvigorated passion, the couple continue preparations for competitions in October, although Mr Ware suggested they will be his last as he continues Gold Coast-based NeuroPhysics Therapy Institute.

“We need the break away from our day-to-day stuff, because we’re always working with broken people, very hard cases and people who have very high needs in terms of getting their health back on track, so it’s our way of escaping and looking after ourselves first and foremost,” he said.

“That’s the primary reason we do it, just to look after ourselves so we can offer better help to other people.”

‍

‍

Ken and Nickie Ware, who met in the Pioneer Valley in 2000, recently returned from Mexico with bronze bodybuilding medals. Photo supplied

‍

A recent fascinating discovery has piqued the curiosity of ocean enthusiasts and marine lovers alike.

Michael DePinto shared a captivating image on the ‘Save Our Northwall’ Facebook page, showcasing a colourful orb washed ashore at Ball Bay. According to Michael, his friend found the intriguing creature floating with the tide, devoid of tentacles.

The image sparked various speculations about the identity of this mysterious ocean dweller. Some suggested it could be a Sea Nettle Jellyfish, while others proposed it might be a Sea Slug. However, the prevailing opinion points towards the creature being a Sea Apple, which is a type of sea cucumber.

The Sea Apple, scientifically known as Pseudocolochirus, belongs to the family of colourful and spherical sea cucumbers found in the Indo-Pacific waters. These fascinating creatures add to the biodiversity and wonder of our oceans, captivating the minds of those who come across them.

While the exact origin and journey of this particular Sea Apple may remain a mystery, its presence on the beach at Ball Bay serves as a reminder of the diverse marine life that thrives beneath the waves.

‍

Grapevine Group, with thanks to incredible support from local businesses and locals, generated over $11,000 to continue their life-saving role.

Over the month of June, $5 from every large pizza sold at Laffos Bar and Pizzeria at Caneland Central was donated to Grapevine. The funds were raised through the Pizza for a Purpose initiative to support Grapevine’s continuing work towards local suicide prevention training and awareness initiatives.

"Mackay locals are incredibly generous and helped us reach this fantastic total," said Grapevine Group president Debbie Knight.

Laffos Bar and Pizzeria owner Nicole Laffin said that she couldn't be prouder to support this worthy cause.

"We really wanted to help with Grapevine's efforts,” she said.

"We also understand the value of the prevention training so much so that we're organising for our staff to do it and urge other businesses to do the same," Mrs Laffin said.

The funds raised will help keep Grapevine’s life-saving courses running, like the free 3-hour safeTALK training and 1- hour toolbox talks. The free group safeTALK sessions or Suicide Mythbusters toolbox talks can be delivered on-site at workplaces, sports or community organisations. Public safeTALK sessions are also available.

Ms Knight said the community’s support helps Grapevine continue their training and awareness initiatives.

“Without our supporters we would never have been able to get over 6,000 locals through the training programs.

“Getting this many people trained is a testament to how caring the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions are,” she said.

For local help or to sign up for free training, download the Grapevine Group app now or go to www.grapevine.org.au

‍

‍

L to R: Karen Thompson (Bright Light Marketing), Lianne Gee (Caneland Central), Nicole and Mark Laffin (Laffos Bar and Pizzeria) and Debbie Knight (Grapevine Group)

‍

BUCASIA

At about 3:23am on July 29 a business on Downie Avenue in Bucasia has been broken into.

Entry was gained into the business by using an implement to smash a front glass panel.

The implement was again used to damage a locked cabinet inside the business and cigarette products have been stolen.

Anyone who might have information about this matter is encouraged to contact police as soon as possible - QP2301243597.

NORTH MACKAY

Between 11:00pm on July 23 and 12:00am on July 24 someone gained entry into a business on Harbour Road in North Mackay.

Entry was gained by damaging the locked back door.

Once inside cash and multiple items of jewellery (rings, pocket watches, necklaces) have been stolen.

The intruder/s have left through the front door of the business.

Anyone who might have information about this matter is encouraged to contact police as soon as possible. Police report number QP2301214385.

‍

A groundbreaking clinical trial is underway, seeking individuals diagnosed with Coeliac Disease throughout the Mackay and Whitsundays.

Spearheaded by Mackay's Coral Sea Clinical Research Institute (CSCRI), this early phase trial is dedicated to investigating the potential of ZED1227 - a revolutionary small molecule tissue transglutaminase (TG2) inhibitor as a promising treatment for Coeliac Disease.

“Patients with celiac disease urgently need appropriate therapeutic options to manage the significant negative impacts of the disease on health and daily quality of life,” said Roland Greinwald, Ph.D., Managing Director Medicine & Pharmaceutics at Dr. Falk Pharma, the company behind this latest advance in progressing a new therapy for Coeliac Disease.

Coeliac disease is an autoimmune-mediated chronic inflammatory condition of the small intestine affecting about 1.4% of the Australian population. The autoimmune disease is triggered by dietary gluten and consumption of foods containing wheat, barley, or rye leads to destruction of the small intestinal mucosa in genetically susceptible individuals, ZED1227 selectively binds to the active state of TG2, and has been designed for the treatment of coeliac disease.

“This is another very important study involving a potential treatment for Coeliac Disease, particularly as the only available treatment for Coeliac Disease remains a gluten free diet,” said Dr. James Daveson, a gastroenterologist and principal investigator for the study at CSCRI.

“CSCRI are particularly excited about how successful we have been in attracting companies to undertake their global studies for Coeliac Disease in the Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday region given it is the only regional site involved outside of South-East Queensland.”

The study at the CSCRI requires people diagnosed with biopsy proven Coeliac Disease who are experiencing symptoms despite maintaining a gluten free diet for at least 12 months. Participants will need to come in to CSCRI for their visits.

If you are interested in being involved, please contact the research team on 1800 69 27 27 (1800 MY CSCRI), email at admin@coralseaclinical.com or visit the website at www.coralseaclinical.com

‍

Dr James Daveson - Gastroenterologist and Director at Coral Sea Clinical Research Institute

‍

changing societal attitudes, supportive policies, and technological advancements, Australian women are making remarkable strides in the business world. In 2023, these fierce entrepreneurs are rewriting the rules and leaving a lasting impact on various industries. We take a look at five inspirational women in business who have blazed impressive paths in business.

Katie Page (Harvey Norman) Net Worth: $80 million; Harvey Norman revenues – $2.547 billion

Named 4th in ABR’s list of “50 most powerful women in business” 2015.

Katie Page, the CEO of Harvey Norman Holdings, has proven herself as a powerhouse in the retail industry. Managing a network of 277 stores in eight countries, Katie's influence extends far beyond her business. She is an active promoter of women in sports, and her advocacy has made a significant impact on female representation in sports leadership roles.

Janine Allis (Boost Juice) Net Worth: (upwards of) $66 million; Retail Zoo revenues – $350 million

Janine Allis' journey from selling juice from her home to building an empire of 550 Boost Juice stores worldwide is truly inspiring. Not only is she a successful entrepreneur, but she is also the part-owner of Retail Zoo, the parent company of Boost Juice, Salsa’s Fresh Mex Grill, Betty’s Burgers, and Cibo Espresso.

Melanie Perkins (Canva) Net Worth: $6.5 billion

Melanie Perkins, the CEO, and Co-founder of Canva has taken the tech world by storm. Canva, an online design and publishing tool, is valued at an impressive $40 billion in 2021. Melanie's vision and leadership have played a pivotal role in Canva's incredible success.

Kayla Itsines (Sweat App) Net Worth: $64 million

In the Times list of “30 most influential people on the Internet” 2016.

Kayla Itsines has gone from being a personal trainer in Adelaide to creating one of the world's most successful fitness apps, Sweat. At just 29 years old, Kayla's entrepreneurial journey is a shining example of leveraging technology to build a thriving business.

Diana Williams (Fernwood Women’s Health Clubs) Net Worth: Turnover more than $75 million/year

In 1989, Diana Williams was a stay-at-home mom in Melbourne when she realized the need for a female-only gym. She opened her first gym in Bendigo, Victoria, and 30 years later, Fernwood Women's Health Clubs has grown to 70 clubs across Australia with 73,000 members. Diana's vision for women's fitness has made her business a phenomenal success.

These five women are just a glimpse of the many remarkable female entrepreneurs in Australia. With their determination, innovation, and leadership, they are paving the way for a more inclusive and dynamic business landscape in the future.

‍

‍

Janine Allis

Melanie Perkins

Kayla Itsines

Simplified By Local Teacher

A local teacher and business owner has aimed to simplify teaching maths to children with a brand new, innovative approach to times tables.

Nicole Batzloff, AKA Mrs B, has utilised her hands-on teaching experience by designing and trademarking a Sensory Hundreds Chart, an innovation in maths resources she believes will advance children years.

Offering kids the opportunity to “know your times tables in 10 days”, the new times tables method leverages off the multisensory resource to give children an understanding of their times tables, like no other method has ever done in the past.  

“We all know how important times tables are for success in mathematics and for years, we have taught and learned them by rote,” Mrs Batzloff said.

The method still includes a host of traditional and brand-new rote activities but is underpinned with the multi-sensory hundreds chart, providing children a real framework for understanding times tables in a way no other method has ever done in the past.  

Mrs Batzloff employed an often-encouraged hands-on approach to mathematics learning experiences, giving children the opportunity to explore their times tables in a hands-on way.  

She said that not only does it help children fully grasp times tables but also enhances their overall mathematical fluency by combining sensory learning with whole-brain engagement.

The innovation was recently showcased on Mrs Batzloff’s TikTok channel, garnering an astounding 100,000 views within 48 hours.

Visit mrsblearningresources.com.au for more information.

‍

‍

Nicole Batzloff, AKA Mrs B, has conceptualised a Sensory Hundreds Chart to assist learning times tables

‍

The Transformative Power of Mentorship

In the tapestry of our professional lives, there exists a thread that weaves magic and transforms dreams into reality. It's called mentorship, and it holds the key to unlocking untapped potential within us.

Imagine having an expert by your side, someone who has walked the winding roads you tread now and emerged victorious. A mentor, a beacon of knowledge and experience, offering guidance and support as you navigate the complexities of your career. The bond between mentor and mentee is more than just a passing relationship; it's an emotional connection, a nurturing embrace that fuels your growth.

Finding a mentor may seem like searching for a needle in a haystack, but fear not, for the universe has a way of bringing kindred spirits together. Seek out networking events, join professional organisations, or simply reach out to someone whose wisdom you admire. Embrace vulnerability and initiate that first conversation, for mentorship often blossoms from genuine connections.

But wait, there's more. Enter the benevolent force of sponsorship - a powerful ally that takes mentorship to the next level. A sponsor is like a knight in shining armor, advocating for your career advancement and opening doors to opportunities you might never have imagined. They see your potential, and through their influence, they pave the way for your success.

How does one find a sponsor, you may wonder? It often begins with excellence in your craft and building a reputation that shines like a beacon. As you excel, your work speaks volumes, and it catches the discerning eye of potential sponsors. But, like mentorship, sponsorship flourishes in the fertile soil of authentic relationships. Embrace networking, engage with influencers, and show genuine interest in their endeavors.

The beauty of mentorship lies not just in the opportunities they provide but also in the reciprocity of growth. As mentees, we absorb the wisdom of our mentors, but in turn, they are invigorated by our fresh perspectives and enthusiasm. Similarly, sponsors find fulfillment in watching their protégés soar, knowing they played a pivotal role in shaping their destinies.

So, my dear dreamers and achievers, embrace the transformative power of mentorship. Allow these guiding stars to illuminate your path and ignite the fire within you. Together, we shall ascend to greater heights, leaving a trail of inspiration for those who follow.

With heartfelt encouragement, Queens,

Shirlz x

‍

Elevating Cane Farming Through Sustainable Practices

CaneRise brings together the great work of cane farmers and industry in the Mackay Whitsunday region to reduce runoff, and improve soils and water quality in the region.

It’s a new website (canerise.com.au) featuring stories and tools to help cane farmers in the Mackay Whitsunday region grow their productivity through sustainable practices.

Established as part of a Great Barrier Reef Foundation Reef Trust Partnership project, it recognises practices that are working to improve water quality in reef catchment areas.

More than 460 landholders throughout the Mackay Whitsunday region alone have taken part in free Reef Trust Partnership-funded projects over the past few years.

We have seen benefits for farmers—with savings to time and money— as well as benefits to the environment. We now have the opportunity to share this widely through the CaneRise site.

The build of CaneRise responds to research which identified a need to have information about resources for sustainable practices in the Mackay Whitsunday region in one place, that cane farmers can more easily find and access.

The site includes existing tools that can help farmers improve practices, but can often be harder to find. This includes calculators for fertiliser blends and application, tools to support economic decision making, and resources to make data collection and record keeping easier.

It also showcases industry best practice frameworks such as Smartcane BMP and 6 Easy Steps, which many local growers have been implementing and seeing benefits for over almost a decade.

And many of these practical tools and practices come from local farmers themselves. Sarina grower, Ron Gurnett, built a high rise sprayer, modified from a cotton picker. The high rise gives more flexibility in his spraying routine, saving time and money, and improving the land for the future.

Find more stories like this on CaneRise.com.au, and keep up to date with the latest resources and tools by signing up on the website for updates.

Sarina grower, Ron Gurnett

‍

With property owners getting set for hazard reduction burns in the lead-up to bushfire season, Ergon Energy Network and the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) are urging them to take extra precautions around the power network.

Ergon Work Group Leader Craig Maddy highlighted the dangers of fires getting too close to power poles and other electrical assets when people conduct burns.

“More than a dozen power poles were brought down by landowner’s burns getting out of control last year, bringing down powerlines and cutting supply to entire communities in some cases,” Mr Maddy said.

“In addition to the inconvenience of widespread power disruptions, fallen powerlines can cause serious injury or even death to people and livestock that come into contact with them.  

“Just as troubling is a power pole that’s only partially burnt because it will be significantly weakened and potentially snap during high winds or storm activity without warning.

“So we’re asking any landowners who are about to burn to ensure vegetation is cleared within a five metre radius of the base of a pole.”

Rural Fire Service A/Assistant Commissioner Peter Hollier said taking precautions before and during hazard reduction burns could significantly minimise the risk of damaging property and electricity infrastructure.  

“It is imperative landholders are well aware of their surroundings and remain vigilant to ensure they, their families and properties are safe while conducting any bushfire mitigation work,” Mr Hollier said.

“To minimise the chances of fire damaging power poles and property, I would encourage property owners to trim or clear any long grass, foliage and rubbish around their electricity infrastructure and remain with any planned burns they carry out.

“If your council area is not currently drought declared, dampening the radius with water can also reduce the chances of accidental damage to property.

“Remember, you will need to apply for a free permit from your local fire warden before lighting a fire larger than two metres in any direction.

“For more information around bushfire preparedness head to qfes.qld.gov.au.”

In the event of a fire always dial triple zero.

‍

By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

A grower’s interest in the sugar they produce doesn’t end when cane is supplied to the mills for processing. Cane Supply Agreements include Grower and Miller Economic Interest clauses, which mean that growers can use the marketer of their choice to forward price their sugar on the commodities-based Intercontinental Exchange (ICE).

Thus, through a cane pricing formula, growers and millers share the risks and rewards.

The arrangement is also enshrined in the Federal Sugar Industry Code of Conduct, and, in Queensland, the Sugar Industry Act 1999. The Code of Conduct, overseen by the ACCC, is a vitally important instrument, maintaining equity and certainty around regulation and expected conduct between growers, millers, and marketers.

The Code was hard-fought-for by CANEGROWERS and the Australian Cane Farmers Association (ACFA), to keep in place the transparent, not-for-profit, industry-owned sugar marketer QSL. The need for a Code of Conduct (CoC) came about as a result of the industry moving into a deregulated environment in the past decade, giving millers a potential added advantage as monopoly marketers. The CoC set out obligations for supply contracts between millers and growers, and on-supply agreements from millers to marketers, maintaining a balance in the marketing of Grower Economic Interest (GEI).

The economic interest split, broadly speaking, is about 70% GEI to 30% MEI.  From there, growers can opt to forward price their GEI out three years at varying amounts according to the certainty of harvest and supply capitalising on current strong prices into the future. Or, they may choose just to keep their pricing in line with the current harvest. Forward pricing is not unique to sugar- other agricultural commodities use the strategy. To that end, growers are making decisions on even a daily basis in an effort to maximise their income.

For the past year, sugar prices have been very strong, climbing up over the $800 per tonne to a recent April high of $842/tonne. It’s a long way from the $350/ tonne on offer in 2020. While prices remain strong, the market has been somewhat fickle of late. There are still opportunities for growers pricing their Production Risk pool if they have filled all of their target pricing. Of course, it’s important to note that while market price is riding high, the price growers actually receive is less.

There are a range of factors that influence sugar price, from the progress of crops and harvests across sugar producing nations like major players like Brazil and India, to Thailand, Australia, USA, EU, Pakistan and Russia. Further influences include ethanol production from sugar, exchange rates, Reserve Bank decisions, free trade agreements, shipping, cost of production (eg: fuel, fertiliser) to name a few.

Even the Russian war in Ukraine is an influence, as it affects fertiliser prices and is a driver OF global food inflation, with mounting pressure on grain supply. The Ukraine has been a vitally important supplier of the world’s grain- used across human and livestock food.

Indicators are that despite that recent bearish behaviour of the market, prices are remaining strong. There remains a high demand for sugar, while countries like India and Thailand grapple with a delayed monsoon, and the Brazilian sugar industry struggles to move sugar from port (where it competes with other commodities like corn) and has had reduced sugar recovered per tonne of cane this harvest, due to harvesting of immature crops.

Locally, CANEGROWERS Mackay wants to see the best for our members’ opportunity to capitalise on the high sugar price. That means getting our full crop away, currently hampered by rain events across July, and by poor mill performance. We can’t do anything about the weather, but millers can invest in their mills sufficiently to have them work reliably and efficiently. CANEGROWERS Mackay grower representatives have been highly vocal with millers in Mackay and Plane Creek on this subject.

The predicament for growers in Mackay and Plane Creek with the repeated rain events and decreased mill performance both this year and the preceding two years, is that it is difficult to make decisions on forward pricing. Forward pricing comes with a risk factor if the grower is not able to get all of that crop away. If any growers do have concerns, we urge them to talk to their marketer rep sooner rather than later to explore solutions.

‍

‍

Growers can forward price their sugar with the marketer of their choice, based on the Intercontinental Exchange (ICE). Photo credit: Kirili Lamb

‍