Regional Advisory Group - Burdekin

In 2005, the former Australian Agriculture Minister Warren Truss appointed prominent regional identities to serve on the Burdekin regional advisory group (RAG), as part of the Sugar Industry Reform Program (SIRP), launched in April 2004. The Burdekin RAG plays a key role in implementing the Australian Government's $444 million Sugar Industry Reform Program.

The Burdekin RAG identifies and develops local responses to local challenges - responses that reflect the special circumstances affecting the region. The group also works closely with the Industry Oversight Group to help identify the priorities for wider industry reform, and to develop a strategic vision for the Australian sugar industry.

The members of the Burdekin Regional Advisory Group are:

• Chair Russell McNee, Grower, Invicta
• Member Chris Cannavan, Grower, Home Hill
• Member Geoff Cox, Grower, Pioneer
• Member Mark Day , General Manager, CSR Burdekin
• Member Lyn McLaughlin, Grower and Burdekin Shire Mayor
• Member Tom McShane representing the environment
• Member Max Menzel, Grower, Invicta

RAG members are selected for their expertise and experience, as well as their enthusiasm for the future of the sugar industry.

From August 2004 to September 2005, the Burdekin RAG developed a regional plan, an economic, social and environmental blueprint for sugar cane production.

On September 19, 2005 the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Peter McGauran announced payment of $68.4 million in sustainability grants to Queensland sugar growers and mills following acceptance of  the regional plans, and simultaneously announced the second round of Regional and Community Projects.

Successful Round 2 Regional and Community Projects were announced on April 18, 2006.