Summary

This project aimed to identify and develop new opportunities for diversification for sugarcane growers and millers in tropical Far North Queensland. It explored options to:

• Increase total biomass production per unit of land by screening diverse genotypes and alternative crops.
• Maintain current sucrose production levels while increasing total carbon output (e.g. more fibre, molasses, or cane juice).
• Add value to the fibre, molasses and tops of the sugarcane plant.

In addition to testing new ‘energycane’ varieties, researchers trialled the use of sorghum as a potential perennial feedstock for mills and growers. The data collected Gathered helped identify the most promising diversification options and sustainable business models to guide future industry investment and planning.

Expected outcomes

• Developed a comprehensive chemical profile of the sugarcane plant (including stem and leaves) for both current commercial varieties and atypical germplasm suited to biomass production, and diversification opportunities.
• Conducted a detailed chemical analysis of sorghum to assess its potential to complement the sugarcane biomass supply.
• Created a diversification model applicable to all sugarcane production areas seeking to diversify their income streams from sugarcane.

Project updates

• Update 1: Project overview
• Update 2: Sugarcane crop development
• Update 3: Mid-season crop composition
• Update 4: Mid-season sugarcane water soluable chemical composition