Stage two of the Isis Central Sugar Mill’s cane railway extension has been granted development approval by Bundaberg Regional Council.
The extension, from Booyal to Wallaville, will increase efficiencies during harvesting and improve road safety by reducing the number of trucks hauling cane in the area.
Planning and Development portfolio spokesperson Cr Ross Sommerfeld said this application formed part of a major extension of Isis Mill’s rail infrastructure.
“This project is a boost for the region’s economy and is testament to the fact that the sugar industry, with its long history in the region, continues to thrive,” Cr Sommerfeld said.
“Extending railway access in to these areas creates the potential for land that is currently underutilised to be cultivated for sugarcane production.
“Stage one of the project, approved in 2018, saw the Isis Mill cane railway network extended between Cordalba and Booyal.
“The development will improve efficiencies for local cane producers by allowing them closer access to the rail network and reducing transport costs.”
Cr Sommerfeld said the railway extension would ease traffic on roads surrounding the mill during the crushing season.
“During peak harvesting times there can 150 truck movements along the roads between the Isis Mill and the Booyal and Wallaville area seven days a week for up to six months.”
In September 2018 Bundaberg Regional Council introduced a Temporary Local Planning Instrument to assist the Isis Central Sugar Mill in its proposal to develop the cane rail line extension.
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