Latest Mackay Seaport News

Bio-diesel plant to provide big boost for the economy

The Mackay economy and local farmers could reap the rewards from plans to develop a $50 million bio-diesel plant at the city's commercial harbour.

Minister for Transport, Trade, Employment and Industrial Relations John Mickel said the proposed plant would be built on land owned by the Mackay Port Authority (MPA).
Queensland Biodiesel chairman Peter Bois (right) outlines the project to the Minister for Transport, Trade, Employment and Industrial Relations John Mickel, Mackay Port Authority deputy chair, Mrs Robynne Dudley, Minister for Primary Industries and Fisheries, and Member for Mackay, Tim Mulherin, and Mr Mickel’s policy advisor Ken McKay.

Mr Mickel said an in-principle agreement signed with Queensland Biodiesel Pty Ltd today was the first step in paving the way for the construction of Australia’s largest bio-diesel plant, capable of producing 180 million litres of "clean-green" alternative fuel a year.

“Currently the agreement in principle is to lease the land to Queensland Biodiesel, however the plant will only go ahead following stringent environmental approvals, ”he said.

“If these environmental approvals are finalised, the first stage of the multi-million dollar state-of-the-art project could come online late next year, initially producing 60 million litres of green fuel.”

“The project has the potential to further stimulate the region's growing economy, creating 120 jobs, but importantly opening up new opportunities for other industries.”

“The MPA already makes a substantial contribution to the regional economy. Currently, the port adds more than $153 million to the local economy and is responsible for up to 430 jobs each year.”

“This project could increase that contribution significantly.”

Minister for Primary Industries and Fisheries, and Member for Mackay, Tim Mulherin, said the port-based bio-diesel production facility was an exciting proposal for the sugar industry.

“The unique aspect of this project is its sustainability, using clean green technology,” he said.

“Once approved, the bio-diesel project will initially be made from imported renewable resources such as soybean, sunflower and canola.

Eventually crops will be sourced throughout the region creating new opportunities and revenue streams for farmers, particularly canegrowers.

Soybean could emerge as a viable alternative 'cash crop' for canegrowers

The cane-growing industry is extremely vulnerable to global influences, and soybean could provide a safety net for farmers.

Growers are very excited about this announcement and they are keen to explore all commercial opportunities.”