James Cook University (JCU) researchers are calling for urgent government support to protect the spectacled flying-fox from extinction as new and escalating threats push the species closer to the brink. Despite their reputation as noisy and messy neighbours, spectacled flying-foxes play a vital role in the survival of Australia’s rainforests, travelling vast distances to pollinate flowers and spread seeds at levels unmatched by any other species. JCU adjunct associate professor Noel Preece sai
Read the full storyNational Police Remembrance Day Today, the community of Ingham came together to pay tribute to the brave men and women of the Queensland Police Service who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The National Police Remembrance Day Service, held at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church, offered a solemn and poignant moment for reflection, remembrance, and respect. Since 1861, 151 Queensland Police officers have lost their lives while protecting and serving communities across the state.
Read the full storyEach year, a team of Hinchinbrook Emergency Services Cadets travels to Brisbane to attend the prestigious ESCAPE Week, a program that brings together cadets from across Queensland to experience life at multiple emergency services. This year, three Hinchinbrook cadets participated: two senior cadets attending as leaders and one as a program participant, accompanied by Cadet Coordinator Mark Regazzoli. The week kicked off at Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ), Bribie Island, where cadets underwent an
Read the full storyThe Hurley Bus Since launching in December last year, the Hurley Bus has already completed more than 400 bookings, providing free transport for elderly, frail, and palliative community members. The service, run entirely by volunteers through the Ingham Palliative Carers Committee, offers a safe, reliable, and compassionate way for people to stay connected and attend important appointments. The eight-seat bus is wheelchair accessible and travels throughout Ingham, the surrounding districts, Card
Read the full storySimon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing
Wilmar Grower Marketing’s annual Global Traders Roadshow has wrapped up for another year
after a busy week of presentations, starting in Ingham and finishing in Sarina.
The events brought together growers from across our milling regions to hear first-hand insights
into the forces shaping the sugar market.
Guest speaker Peter Bingham, Wilmar’s London-based Senior Sugar Trader, provided an in-
depth look at the global market, with particular focus on the latest developments in Brazil and
India.
Brazil’s record sugar mix and India’s higher production outlook were highlighted as key factors
influencing supply, pricing, and trade flows in the months ahead.
Peter also delivered a thought-provoking session on consumer demand, exploring how shifting
diets, health concerns, and sustainability trends are reshaping global sugar consumption
patterns.
Local growers also heard from Bevan Patterson, Wilmar Sugar Australia’s Risk Manager, who
explained how global politics and currency markets affect returns.
He highlighted the role of the Australian dollar, which continues to be influenced by wider
geopolitical factors, including trade policy and the impact of recent Trump tariffs. His session
underlined how changes well beyond Australia’s borders can have a direct effect on the value
of local sugar.
The roadshow once again proved to be a valuable opportunity for growers to connect, ask
questions, and walk away with a clearer picture of the opportunities and risks facing our
industry.
By bringing our global expertise to local communities, the event hopefully helps growers to
make informed decisions about pricing their GEI sugar exposure.
The Grower Marketing team and I would like to thank all those who attended across the districts
and contributed to the conversations. We look forward to continuing to work alongside you to
achieve the best results for your farm.
As always, if you have any enquiries regarding your marketing or pricing, please contact a
member of the team. We are on hand to assist when and where you need it.