Queensland’s sugarcane industry could hold the key to powering the state’s future as a renewable energy leader, and the Queensland Parliament’s Primary Industries and Resources Committee is calling on local voices to shape that future.
Committee Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, said the Committee will hold a public hearing in Mackay on Tuesday, 9 September 2025, as part of its Inquiry into Sugarcane Bioenergy Opportunities in Queensland.
“We want to hear from local growers and industries about how we can leverage our sugarcane assets to capitalise on bioenergy opportunities and address the barriers holding back growth”.
“Year after year we hear concerns about mill performance. This inquiry is a chance to look beyond the challenges, bring new investment into the industry, and unlock the potential of sugarcane not just for sugar, but for energy and biomanufacturing.”
“The more evidence and ideas the committee can gather, the better equipped we will be to make recommendations that support our sugarcane growing regions and strengthen regional economies.” Mr Kelly Said.
The Mackay hearing will be held at Souths Leagues Club from 9.00am to 11.00am. Anyone wishing to address the committee or simply attend are asked to register online via the inquiry webpage.
Information about the inquiry, including submission guidelines, is available at the Committee’s website or contact the Mirani electorate office for more information.
Mr Kelly said Mackay and the Isaac coast region are uniquely placed to take advantage of emerging opportunities in bioenergy and biomanufacturing.
“There is no region better placed to embrace an emerging biomanufacturing sector than Mackay and the Isaac coast,” he said.
“We already have the QUT Renewable Biocommodities Pilot Plant co-located at Racecourse Mill, which is currently undergoing a $16 million upgrade being supported by the Australian and Queensland Governments through the Regional Recovery Partnerships Program and the Queensland Government Department of State Development and Infrastructure through the Industry Partnership Program.
“This investment will boost regional biomanufacturing, attract investment, create jobs, and support cutting-edge technologies that will help secure the future of our sugar industry.”
Mr Kelly encourages growers, millers, researchers, and community members to attend the hearing and share their insights.
Glen Kelly MP is calling on local sugarcane growers and industry experts to share their ideas at the upcoming Mackay public hearing on bioenergy opportunities. Photo supplied
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