CANEGROWERS has welcomed the appointment of Peter Trimble as the new Chair of Sugar Terminals Limited (STL), calling it an important opportunity to restore confidence and unity across the sugar industry following a period of division.
CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said growers are hopeful the new leadership will bring renewed stability, transparency and genuine engagement to STL.
“Queensland’s sugar terminals are industry-owned assets. Growers paid two-thirds of the original construction costs, and today we continue to pay the bulk of storage and handling charges,” Mr Menkens said. “Growers deserve respect and transparency in return – and in recent years, they’ve felt neither.”
Mr Menkens said many growers remain disappointed with the handling of the 2023 insourcing decision and the conflict that followed.
“The process associated with the insourcing decision damaged confidence and continues to cast a long shadow across the industry.” he said.
He said Mr Trimble’s appointment provides an opportunity to rebuild relationships and restore confidence at a crucial time for the sector.
“The appointment of Mr Trimble as Chair is a chance to reset, rebuild trust and restore constructive relationships. We want to see open communication, real accountability and a commitment to working with growers to ensure the success of the whole industry.
“Peter knows this industry, and we hope he brings a steady hand and a willingness to listen. The opportunity is there – now it needs to be taken.”
Mr Menkens also acknowledged outgoing Chair Mark Gray, offering firm but measured reflections on his tenure.
“We wish Mr Gray better success in his future endeavours. Hopefully he has learned some valuable lessons from the divisions left in the wake of his approach to stakeholders, and the impact of some of the decisions made during his time as Chair. Our industry deserves better, and this is a chance to get back on track.”
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