List of sugar mills in Queensland

Give way to cane trains!

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StateLibQld 2 129087 Mossman Sugar Mill, Queensland, 1920s

Gordonvale Sugar Mill

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Tableland Sugar Mill, 2016

StateLibQld 2 258885 Sugar mill at South Johnstone, near Innisfail, 1930

Tully Sugar Mill

List of Sugar Mills in Queensland

Queensland, a state in the northeastern part of Australia, is known for its vibrant sugar industry, which plays a crucial role in the local economy. The state's warm climate and fertile soil provide ideal conditions for sugarcane cultivation, making it one of the largest sugar-producing regions in the world. This article provides an overview of the significant sugar mills operating in Queensland, which are pivotal in transforming sugarcane into sugar and other by-products.

History of Sugar Production in Queensland

The history of sugar production in Queensland dates back to the 19th century when the first sugarcane crops were planted. Since then, the industry has evolved, with numerous mills being established to process the sugarcane harvested from extensive plantations across the state. These mills have been instrumental in the development of rural communities, providing employment and supporting local economies.

List of Sugar Mills in Queensland

Below is a list of notable sugar mills in Queensland, which are significant contributors to the state's sugar industry:

Active Mills

• Tully Sugar Mill - Located in Tully, one of the largest sugar mills in Australia, known for its high production capacity.
• Mackay Sugar Limited - Operating several mills in the Mackay region, this company is one of the oldest and largest in the Queensland sugar industry.
• Bundaberg Sugar - Situated in the Bundaberg region, known for producing a significant portion of Queensland's sugar.
• Wilmar Sugar Australia - Owning and operating several mills in Queensland, Wilmar Sugar is a major player in the Australian sugar industry.

Historic Mills

• Moreton Central Sugar Mill - Once a key mill in the Nambour region, now preserved as a heritage site.
• South Johnstone Mill - An important historical mill that has contributed significantly to the local economy of the South Johnstone area.

Sugar Milling Process

The process of sugar milling involves several key steps:

1. Harvesting: Sugarcane is harvested either manually or mechanically.
2. Crushing: The sugarcane is then transported to mills where it is crushed to extract sugarcane juice.
3. Boiling: The juice is boiled and concentrated to form a syrup.
4. Crystallization: Sugar crystals form in the syrup, which are then separated in centrifuges.
5. Drying: The crystals are dried to produce raw sugar, which can be further refined.

Economic Impact

The sugar mills in Queensland are not only vital for the production of sugar but also contribute significantly to the state's economy. They provide direct employment opportunities and support a wide range of industries related to agriculture, manufacturing, and logistics.

Environmental Considerations

The sugar industry faces challenges related to environmental sustainability, including water usage, waste management, and the impact of farming practices on the ecosystem. Sugar mills and farmers are increasingly adopting sustainable practices to mitigate these impacts.

Future of Sugar Mills in Queensland

The future of sugar mills in Queensland looks promising, with ongoing research and development aimed at improving efficiency and sustainability. Innovations in sugarcane varieties, milling processes, and by-product utilization are expected to drive the industry forward.