In a rebranding move that mirrors its exceptional expansion and commitment to its members, the Burdekin Cane & Agriculture Organisation has unveiled its new identity as Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables (QCAR). This rebrand isn't just about nomenclature; it underscores the organisation's visionary journey towards a sustainable future for Queensland's sugar industry.
Panikos Spyrou, QCAR's CEO, said the rebrand signifies rapid growth and unification among members, propelled by a proactive collaboration with AgForce and the Australian Cane Farmers Association (ACFA).
“We are more than a mere collective; we epitomise forward-thinking, underpinned by a commercially-driven ethos that generously rewards growers who embrace technology and innovation,” he said.
The statistics bear witness to this transformation. Over the past year, QCAR's tonnage has surged from 1.3 million tonnes to an impressive 4.2 million tonnes. While QCAR's roots remain firmly entrenched in the Burdekin, its membership aims to span from the Daintree in the north to the Gold Coast in the south, encompassing Queensland's entire sugar-growing coastline.
Spyrou elaborated, "Our focus isn't just on our past achievements; we are resolutely oriented towards the future. Renewables are the linchpin of the cane industry's tomorrow, and QCAR desires to be at the forefront of this evolution.
“As the world focuses on decarbonisation, we are delving into the conversion of cane byproducts into commodities, along with exploring renewable energy prospects during the milling process."
What truly sets QCAR apart is its steadfast commitment to maximising grower profits and advancing efficiency without curtailing high achievers. This approach not only augments growers' earnings but also contributes to thriving local communities.
"A flourishing industry is great for the local community, and this ethos has already attracted some of Australia's most substantial producers to QCAR,” Mr Spyrou said.
“QCAR is unique in the sense that it has links to three state bodies and also federal advocacy which allows us to give focus to a superior local service while we expand into other areas with the same ‘hands-on’ member focused issues that bring service back to our growers which effectively transforms their financial levy contribution from a cost to an investment into their families’ and local communities’ future.
“Direct access to various State based representation plays a great role, not only for Cane specific issues, but also for all Agricultural matters which directly affect our underlying farmer members.”
QCAR collaborates closely with sugar mills, focusing on cooperative solutions to industry hurdles. Rather than casting blame, the organisation works hand in hand with mills and logistics to streamline processes and expedite cane from paddock to mill. Members' concerns receive prompt and efficient attention, nurturing swifter growth and prosperity that reverberates through community development.
The preliminary launch of this rebrand aligns with the introduction of this publication, Burdekin Life newspaper, following comprehensive approvals from the board and members. As QCAR strides resolutely into this new chapter, it remains unwaveringly dedicated to its core tenets of unity, sustainability, and prosperity for all stakeholders.
The future gleams with promise, and QCAR is at the helm, hand in hand with its growers and partners, steering Queensland's sugar industry towards a more vibrant, profitable and sustainable future.
QCAR CEO Panikos Spyrou
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