Queensland’s 2026 sugarcane harvest is set to commence next week, with harvesters preparing to roll across growing regions from Far North Queensland to the Gold Coast over the coming months.
The season will officially begin on the Tablelands, with the first cane expected to be processed at MSF’s Arriga mill on 18 May. Tully Sugar will follow on 26 May, commencing its crush earlier than usual due to a larger crop forecast.
While seasonal growing conditions have generally been favourable and around 29 million tonnes of cane are expected to be harvested by December, the industry is facing significant economic pressure.
CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said falling global sugar prices, rising production costs and ongoing uncertainty surrounding fuel and fertiliser supply were creating major concerns for growers heading into the season.
Almost 100 million litres of diesel will be required across harvesting, planting and transport operations during the crush, while approximately 130,000 tonnes of urea fertiliser will also be needed before the end of the year.
Despite the challenges, the industry remains focused on delivering the harvest, with growers, mills and suppliers continuing to work together to support operations throughout the season.
