100 Years Stronger Together Celebrating CANEGROWERS’ Centenary

This year, Canegrowers celebrates an extraordinary milestone - 100 years of giving Queensland sugarcane growers a strong, united voice.

To mark this historic occasion, Canegrowers Herbert River will host a Centenary Gala Dinner on Saturday the 9th of May 2026. The event will bring together members, past and present directors and chairpersons, their families, industry colleagues and friends. The wider community is also invited to be part of the celebration.

With the theme Honouring our Past, Embracing our Future - 100 years stronger together, the evening will recognise the people, stories and achievements that have shaped the local sugar industry for a century.

“For 100 years, Canegrowers has been giving Queensland sugarcane growers a strong, united voice,” Canegrowers Herbert River Chairman Steven Marbelli said. “We are looking forward to recognising and celebrating the enduring impact of the local sugar industry with our community.”

Formed in 1926, with regional branches established across Queensland in 1927, Canegrowers was built on unity, hard work and the determination of cane-farming families. The Herbert River district has played an important role in that journey, with generations of local growers helping shape both the regional industry and the wider Australian sugar sector.

Over time, the industry has changed dramatically. Machinery, farming practices and technology have transformed the way cane is grown and harvested. Markets have expanded well beyond local mills to customers around the world. Yet the values of Canegrowers remain the same, advocacy, fairness and a commitment to a sustainable future for growers and their communities.

Centenary celebrations will continue throughout 2026, providing opportunities to reflect on the challenges faced and the successes achieved. They will also welcome new generations of growers into the fold, continuing the legacy built by those who came before them.

The sugar industry has long been a cornerstone of Ingham and the surrounding district. It supports local businesses, creates employment and contributes to the fabric of our towns and schools. This centenary is a celebration for everyone, not just growers, and a reminder of the strong ties between the industry and the community.

After 100 years, the message remains clear. Unity has been the foundation of Canegrowers’ success, and it will continue to guide the organisation into the future.

Save the date for Saturday 9 May 2026, and keep an eye out for the announcement of future event details!