As local sugar industry stakeholders came together this week, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has sounded a clear reminder to representatives that the community the industry supports needed to be at the fore of ongoing discussions.

Welcoming the announcement that following weeks of ongoing strike action, a mediation offer had been accepted by the milling company and unions, Mr Last said it was time for everyone to play their part in ensuring a successful end to the crushing season for the sake of the whole community.

“The rocky start to the 2024 crushing season has already cost growers and that impact flows onto the local community. I would hope that next week’s proceedings bring about a positive outcome in the best interests of the community,” Mr Last said.

“From the moment strike action was announced I have stood by our farmers and our community who have largely been held at ransom during these disputes. I have also said with the increase in recent profits it is incredibly easy to make the case that workers deserve a share of the prosperity." 

“This week has highlighted the need for all aspects of our sugar industry to be able to work cohesively to ensure that this industry has a strong future and as a result, the local economy is able to reap those benefits.”

Mr Last said the ability for millers, growers and contractors to work collaboratively and uphold their responsibilities determined the success of the industry going forward.

“We know that our community relies on this industry to be productive and efficient from the moment planting operations begin to the day that cane is crushed at the mill, if any aspect of that process is not meeting the expectations of other parties then they should be held accountable,” Mr Last said.

“Everyone has a responsibility to uphold, in order to secure the success of the sugar industry in the Burdekin and with the clock ticking it is imperative a successful resolution to the current dispute is found sooner rather than later.”