The Australian Society of Sugar Cane Technologists will today host the 30th Annual Sugar Conference in Townsville.

Not only is this a significant landmark for the Society, 2008 also represents the 30 millionth tonne of sugar from Queensland Sugar Ltd to pass over the wharves at the Port of Townsville.

This history of the relationship between the Port and export of sugar from the region dates back to the 1800s.

The first bulk sugar terminal was completed in June 1959 where a total of 9,600 tonnes of sugar was loaded over two days. Before this sugar was bagged and handled manually and placed in the ship’s hold.

Port of Townsville Chairman Ross Dunning said this is a significant milestone for Queensland Sugar Ltd. “We have a historic relationship with Queensland Sugar Limited and are happy to be able to celebrate this momentous event.

“This is a clear example of a regional partnership that has stood the test of time.” The cultivation of sugar cane and the milling of raw sugar today constitute one of the State’s most important agricultural industries.

There is approximately 1.2 million tonnes of sugar exported from the Port of Townsville to the world each year. The average shipment from Townsville is approximately 30,000 tonnes.

The conference will feature three keynote speakers, who will address the Conference theme of: Embracing Change in a Global Environment.

The keynote speakers are:
Mick Kehoe, Executive Director of the Australian Farm Institute, will speak on economic and policy issues flowing from national and international responses to climate change.

Scott Spencer, Director General of the Queensland Department of Natural Resources and Water, will address economic and policy responses to rising demand for water resources.

Deborah O’Connell, Senior Research Scientist with CSIRO Sustainable Ecosystems, will speak on the opportunities and challenges with biofuels as alternative energy sources.

The Conference and Exhibition is being held at the Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre.