Growers To Watch Closely As STL Takes Control Of Sugar Terminals

CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Gilligan says the organisation will be “paying close attention” as Sugar Terminals Limited (STL) takes over operation of the state’s bulk sugar terminals. Photo supplied.

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Queensland cane growers will be watching closely as Sugar Terminals Limited (STL) takes over operation of the state’s bulk sugar terminals, with industry leaders calling for transparency, fair access and reliable performance under the new model.

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The move, which took effect on July 1, ends a decades-long operating arrangement with Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL), which previously managed the terminals on behalf of STL, the infrastructure’s owner.

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While the change will be felt across Queensland’s sugar industry, Burdekin growers will be among those watching closely as the terminals remain a vital link between local cane production and international export markets.

While the change will be felt across Queensland’s sugar industry, Burdekin growers will be among those watching closely as the terminals remain a vital link between local cane production and international export markets.

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CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said growers had not forgotten concerns raised when STL announced its decision to bring terminal operations in-house, but the focus would now shift to how the new arrangement performed.

“Growers largely funded this infrastructure, so they have every right to expect it will continue to serve the industry it was built for,” Mr Galligan said.

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“From 1 July, STL will be responsible for both owning and operating the terminals. That means it will also be responsible for making sure they are run safely, efficiently and fairly.”

Queensland’s six bulk sugar terminals—located at Cairns, Mourilyan, Lucinda, Townsville, Mackay and Bundaberg—are key links in the state’s sugar export supply chain.

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Mr Galligan acknowledged QSL’s long record as terminal operator and said growers would expect the same standard of reliability to continue under STL’s management.

“QSL has operated these terminals for decades and played an important role in building the reliability Queensland sugar is known for,” he said.

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“Growers will expect that same level of reliability through the transition and into the future.”

Mr Galligan said growers would be closely monitoring the new arrangements, including terminal operations, maintenance, costs and access for all marketers.

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“They will expect reliable operations, appropriate maintenance, transparent low cost pricing and fair treatment for every marketer,” he said.

“No marketer should receive preferential treatment when it comes to storage, access, scheduling or pricing.

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“These are shared industry assets and they need to keep working for the whole sugar industry, not for the benefit of any one company or commercial interest.”

Mr Galligan said STL would also need to demonstrate that the efficiencies promised through bringing operations in-house were delivered and that benefits flowed back to the wider industry.

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“Growers will also expect clear reporting on costs, maintenance and terminal performance so they can see whether the new model is delivering what was promised,” he said.

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“We want the new model to work.

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“But growers will judge it on the results—reliable terminals, fair access, transparent costs and a clear commitment to keeping sugar first.

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