Harvesting Risk & The Path Forward In The Herbert River District

The Herbert River district is a cornerstone of Queensland’s sugar industry, producing significant economic value while sustaining generations of farming families. Central to this success are our harvesting contractors - skilled professionals who ensure cane is efficiently cut, transported, and delivered to mills during the critical crushing season. Recognising their pivotal role, Canegrowers Herbert River is taking proactive steps to understand and address the challenges faced by harvesting contractors in our region.

Currently, Canegrowers Herbert River is conducting a comprehensive survey of all harvesting contractors in the district. The aim is to identify the biggest challenges they face and to gain a clearer picture of the pressures and risks inherent to their operations. From rising finance and insurance costs, labour shortages, equipment maintenance, to delays in mill operations or logistics that affect their ability to perform their role efficiently, understanding the reality of these challenges is essential. This survey is a first step in gathering the insights needed to support contractors and safeguard the long-term viability of harvesting services in the region.

Once the survey is complete, Canegrowers Herbert River plans to establish a dedicated Working Group. This group will bring together key stakeholders, including contractors, growers, industry representatives, and relevant government agencies, to define issues more clearly and explore practical solutions. By creating a collaborative space for discussion and problem-solving, the Working Group will aim to develop strategies that not only address immediate risks but also strengthen the sustainability and resilience of harvesting operations in the Herbert River district.

The retention and attraction of harvesting contractors is critical to the ongoing health of the sugar industry. Contractors provide essential expertise, equipment, and manpower that keep the supply chain running smoothly. By understanding their pain points and actively seeking solutions, Canegrowers Herbert River aims to ensure contractors feel valued, supported, and equipped to continue their work. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to the principle that the industry thrives when all participants—growers, contractors, and supporting stakeholders—work together.

In the face of evolving challenges, the message is clear: Canegrowers Herbert River is dedicated to protecting and strengthening our harvesting workforce. By listening, collaborating, and innovating, we aim to retain the contractors who are vital to our industry and to create conditions that will encourage more skilled professionals to join this essential sector. The health of our industry depends on it, and together, we can ensure that the Herbert River remains a strong and productive sugar-growing region.