Minute With The Mayor - 7th April

As uncertainty continues around fuel supply in the foreseeable future—due in part to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East—Council is putting contingency plans in place to best manage resources if required, ensuring service delivery to the community is not significantly compromised.

While current fuel supply arrangements remain stable, our vulnerability—particularly during the high-risk weather season—means forward planning is essential. Council is determined to be prepared, not reactive.

Our immediate priority is ensuring fuel is available where it matters most. Essential services such as water and sewerage operations, waste collection, regulatory services, and disaster response must be protected. To achieve this, some non-essential activities may need to be adjusted if supply tightens. These decisions will not be taken lightly, and Council will always communicate any changes clearly and early.

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However, as we are increasingly recognising, fuel resources and supply present growing challenges for regional Australia. Addressing this means we must, as a nation, start thinking differently about how we secure our fuel future.

This is where bioenergy—particularly from sugarcane—presents a significant opportunity. We have been advocating for bioenergy for years. We already know it works, and ethanol derived from sugarcane has the potential to be a low‑carbon, renewable game changer for Australia’s fuel security. Many other nations are already embracing this approach, so why can’t we?

Sugarcane is a powerful and versatile crop. Beyond sugar production, it already contributes to renewable electricity generation through bagasse.

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You would therefore understand my delight at hearing yesterday’s recommendations from the State Government’s Primary Industries and Resources Committee, following its inquiry into Sugarcane Bioenergy Opportunities in Queensland.

The purpose of the inquiry was to examine the current state of the sugarcane industry in Queensland, including the barriers and opportunities facing the sector, and to consider mechanisms to support its future growth and diversification.

The committee made 12 recommendations to the Queensland Government aimed at supporting the development of a resilient and profitable sugarcane bioenergy industry. The committee concluded that, with appropriate policysettings and coordinated investment, Queensland’s sugarcane industry is well positioned to play a significant role in the state’s emerging bioeconomy, strengthening regional economies and contributing to Australia’s long-term energy and fuel security.

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However, the job is not yet complete. We must continue advocating to ensure the State Government not only accepts these recommendations but implements them. Both State and Federal Governments must mandate the use of biofuels and establish the right regulatory and policy settings to create a viable market and provide certainty for investment.

This is not about politics.

This is about reality.

And it is about securing a sustainable future for our region.

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