Closure of Historic Queensland Sugar Mill After 127 Years
In a devastating blow to the Far North Queensland community, the historic Mossman Sugar Mill is set to close its doors after 127 years of operation. Despite efforts to find a buyer and secure investment, the mill was forced into voluntary liquidation after no viable takeover bids were received. This closure not only leaves workers without jobs but also raises uncertainty for local cane growers.
The Mossman Sugar Mill, established in 1894, has played a significant role in the sugar production industry in Australia. Located near Port Douglas, it has been a cornerstone of the region’s economy and heritage. Additionally, the mill has been environmentally conscious by generating electricity from the by-products of sugar cane processing, reducing its reliance on external energy sources and minimizing waste.
Hope briefly sparked when an unnamed company offered to invest $26 million to transform the mill into a bio-fuel plant. However, this opportunity failed to materialize, leaving the mill with no viable alternatives. Administrator John Goggin announced the liquidation and stated that the mill’s assets would be sold to pay off creditors.
The closure of the Mossman Sugar Mill is part of a broader liquidation of four grower-operated companies under the Daintree Bio Precinct Group, which also farms papaya and cocoa. The mill’s closure adds to the challenges faced by the sugarcane industry, including last year’s tropical cyclone Jasper that decimated plantations and an industry-wide shortage of workers.
The impact of the mill’s closure extends beyond the workers and cane growers directly affected. Mayoral candidate for Douglas Shire Council, Lisa Scomazzon, emphasized that the closure would have a significant knock-on effect on the entire region. The mill contributes $190 million to the local economy each year, making it a vital part of the community.
During a heated meeting in Port Douglas, workers appealed to the state government for assistance. Premier Steven Miles offered a $12 million funding package to support the mill while a new buyer was sought. However, with the failure to secure a buyer, the government will redirect the funds towards finding employment opportunities for affected residents in alternate industries.
The closure of the Mossman Sugar Mill has raised concerns about the future of the region and its residents. Jenny Atkins, a Mossman resident, expressed her worries about the impact on her family and the town as a whole. She discussed the potential relocation of her children to find work and the potential loss in property value.
In response to the closure, many growers in the surrounding area are considering repurposing their land to grow fruit or raise cattle. This shift reflects the need for alternative industries and income sources in the wake of the mill’s closure.
The Queensland government has expressed disappointment over the inability to secure an investor for the mill. However, they remain committed to supporting the people of the region. A support package will be activated immediately, and an information session outlining options for affected workers will be held in due course.
The closure of the Mossman Sugar Mill marks the end of an era and highlights the challenges faced by the sugar industry in Far North Queensland. As the community grapples with uncertainty, efforts must be made to provide support and explore new opportunities for the workers and growers affected by this closure.
