Mackay Sugar’s Racecourse and Farleigh factories have ceased crushing operations for the 2024 season following significant rainfall across the region, which caused widespread damage to the rail network and disrupted harvesting efforts.
The company confirmed that both sites stopped crushing on Monday, December 23, as repair crews turned their focus to addressing track damage and preparing for a major program of capital and maintenance work planned for the off-season.
The heavy downpours not only left paddocks saturated but also rendered the cane rail network inoperable in several areas, forcing a review of the original end-of-season schedule. Despite the challenging conditions, Mackay Sugar’s Rail Infrastructure team has worked tirelessly on rail repairs and will continue through the holiday period to repair critical track damage.
Wilmar’s Proserpine Mill finished its 2024 season during the week before Christmas, after wet field conditions and “inadequate cane supply” made it difficult to harvest the remaining 3 per cent of the crop.
While Racecourse and Farleigh factories will remain closed, Marian factory was aiming to resume crushing from Friday 27th December, allowing some growers and harvesters the opportunity to continue operations after a brief pause to allow fields to dry out.
Mackay Sugar acknowledged the resilience of its growers and harvesting groups, who have committed to resuming work as soon as conditions permit. The downtime also provides a chance for employees and their families to enjoy a break over Christmas, offering a silver lining amidst the seasonal challenges.
Mackay Sugar expressed gratitude to its staff, growers, and harvesters for their dedication throughout the season and extended wishes for a safe and happy holiday season.
Wilmar said that subject to weather and mill performance, harvesting operations at Plane Creek are currently expected to finish on Thursday 9 January 2025.
Images supplied: Mackay Sugar
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