November 12, 2026

CANEGROWERS Celebrate Century Of Success

Margaret and Brian Stevens Plane Creek area current Legend. Photo credit: Glenn Hunt Photography

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2026 welcomed the 100th year of CANEGROWERS, a milestone that was celebrated in style at Brisbane City Hall on October 29th.  

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Amanda and Joseph Borg MCL Chair

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More than 400 growers, family members, industry representatives and friends came together to recognise 39 legends who have helped shape the cane country across generations. T

he awards were separated into three parts: past, present and emerging, acknowledging the history of the cane growers community.  

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Former MCL and QCGO Chair Paul Schembri Farleigh Grower

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“Together, they represent the pioneers who helped build the industry, the people leading it today and a new generation already making its mark,” shared a spokesperson for CANEGROWERS.  

The night included speeches from CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan, Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett MP, and former chairman Paul Schembri, who delved into the history that built the industry.  

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Greg and Kris Plath with friends

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To close the ceremony, CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens addressed the strength of the organisation, praising the people who have built it for the past century and the ones who shape what comes next.  

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Mackay Sugar Grower Director Frank Perna and sister Victoria Andrews for MackayPast Legend Tony Perna

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Mackay Current Legend Malcolm Pratt centre and family

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Emerging Legend_Anthony Deguara

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