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
The global sugar market has been holding steady in recent weeks, with supply fundamentals keeping a lid on prices.
Brazil is now halfway through its crushing season, and analysts are forecasting production between 39 and 40 million tonnes. With that much sugar expected, commercial traders are confident supply will comfortably meet demand through to the first quarter of next year. This has left speculators largely in control of short-term price movements, looking to push prices below 16 US cents per pound before easing back towards 17 US cents. While they hold a large short position, they remain vulnerable to any unexpected news of lower supply.
Here at home, Wilmar Grower Marketing has released its three-year comparative analysis report, following the finalisation of 2024-season pricing on 30 June. The results speak for themselves: Our Production Risk Pool and Allocation Account have consistently outperformed QSL’s Harvest Pool and Shared Pool. Over three years, the difference in total income for an average-sized grower is significant.
We’ve also issued our quarterly update on the 2025 Managed Pool Plus, giving participating growers insight into the hedging strategies we use to maximise returns. This season’s pool includes committed MEI (miller economic interest) tonnes, meaning we’re working hard to deliver the best possible outcome in all market conditions. Against our benchmarks, the pool is performing well despite the softer market. Interest in managed pool pricing is growing, with the 2026 Managed Pool Plus attracting strong commitments before it closed at the end of July.
Outside the office, our team has been busy during show season, supporting local events, presenting awards, and catching up with growers. Most recently, our Plane Creek Grower Relationship Manager Jonathan Reichard joined colleagues from the Plane Creek Mill and AgServices teams at the Sarina Show to host the Wilmar stand – a great opportunity to connect with the community and celebrate our local industries.
We’re also delighted to welcome Misty Bland as our new Grower Relationship Manager in Proserpine. A canegrower herself, Misty understands the realities of farming life and is passionate about supporting growers. She’s also well known for her volunteer work and community involvement – values that are a big part of who we are at Wilmar Grower Marketing.