Rollers moving for 2026 crush!

The Mackay Harvest is scheduled to begin on 4 June at Farleigh Mill. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb

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Rollers moving  for 2026 crush!

By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

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As you read this, the first bins of cane for the 2026 crushing season in the Mackay-Isaac region should have been tipped at Plane Creek Mill on 2 June, marking the start of a season that the industry is approaching with determination and care.  

Mackay Sugar is following, with scheduled starts for its three mills from 4 June, beginning with Farleigh, followed by Racecourse on 9 June and Marian on 15 June.  

Mackay Sugar’s estimate sits at 5.1 million tonnes with a starting CCS of 13.2, while Plane Creek’s initial crop estimate is about 1.4 million tonnes with a starting CCS of 13.83.

Across both mill areas, pre-harvest meetings have set a constructive tone. Growers, millers and industry leaders are realistic about the challenges ahead, but there is also a strong willingness to work together and make the most of the opportunities this season presents. That spirit of cooperation is helping underpin a sense of cautious optimism across the region.

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Queensland Cane Growers Organisation and the Australian Sugar Manufacturers have worked together ahead of the season to identify the industry’s fuel and fertiliser requirements as harvesting begins and planning continues for the 2027 crop. Economic analysis suggests the Australian sugar industry will require about 99 million litres of fuel this year to complete necessary operations. Those discussions have also involved government, and there are encouraging signs that, despite ongoing tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, suppliers are securing alternative supply lines. While the situation will continue to be monitored closely, this progress is giving the industry greater confidence that harvesting and planting plans can continue as needed.

Seasonal conditions have been mixed. Reduced sunlight and drier weather in some parts of the region during April and May have affected growing conditions, and expectations are for an average crop overall. Even so, cooler weather is helping sugar levels rise, which may ease some of the usual concerns about low CCS levels early in the crush. It is one of several signs that, while conditions are not ideal, the season may still offer solid opportunities if the industry can maintain momentum.

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If you are interested in working as a haulout driver this crush, Mackay Canegrowers has a farm jobs noticeboard: head to www.mackaycanegrowers.com.au to find out more!

For Mackay Canegrowers, the priority remains a safe and successful season for everyone working across the industry and for the wider community.  

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Tramlines, rail crossings and sidings will soon become busier, and slow-moving agricultural vehicles will be more visible on local roads. As farms enter one of their busiest periods, the community is reminded that farms are workplaces and an important driver of the regional economy.  

With good preparation aimed at a strong start, and cooperation across the sector remaining strong, the industry enters Harvest 2026 hopeful, prepared and ready to make the most of the season ahead.

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