2020 SEASON & COVID-19
There have been a number of communications issued from Wilmar and QSL over recent weeks providing updates of practices and processes that have been put in place in order to minimise the impact of COVID-19. Updates, which included “ QSL frequently asked questions” have been uploaded to our web page for members information.
KCGO posed a number of questions to both QSL and Wilmar that were relevant to the storage and export of raw sugar from the Burdekin region through STL’s Townsville facility. Q & A response received from QSL is detailed below, some of which has also been addressed in their recent communications to growers. Wilmar are yet to provide a formal response to questions posed with their current efforts, as a first step, in having State/Federal Government to officially recognise the Sugar Industry as an “essential service” .
KCGO is also aware peak industry bodies in conjunction with Dept of Agriculture and Fisheries have formed working groups to investigate various scenarios and possible impacts to the sugar industry during these uncertain times. QSL, ASMC, STL and CANEGROWERS are known to be participating. Matters being addressed include but not limited to:
• Workforce availability
• WHS
• Business Continuity
• Supply Chain and Logistics
Questions that QSL have responded to are:
• Will there be any residual 2019 sugar remaining in QSL’s Townsville STL terminal storage facilities as of commencement of 2020 season?
At this stage, QSL expect that there will be something like two cargoes left in stock (60,000 tonnes) depending when the season starts. This is quite normal.
• What is the storage capacity of STL Townsville facilities?
The terminal at Townsville can hold 770,000 tonnes of which allocation to QSL/Wilmar is roughly 50/50. Have confirmed with STL storage capacity of its four sheds is approx. 750,000 tonnes (Shed 1- 130kt, Shed 2- 150kt, Sheds3/4- 470kt). This combined holding capacity represents 66% of the Burdekin crop. read more