Mill funding seals the deal

THE saving of the Mossman Mill is a wonderful example of all three levels of government coming together for the good of the community, taxpayers and ratepayers.

Federal, state and local governments have all backed a cooperative’s plan to take over the sugar mill and ensure the future of the Far Northern town.

If the mill closed it would have been the death knell for Mossman.

The struggling town’s survival depends on the mill for jobs and to keep businesses ticking over by supplying goods and services.

The final link in the chain came yesterday when the Queensland Government announced $25 million for Far Northern Milling Pty Ltd to assist in the establishment of an innovative bio-refinery that would help underpin the long-term future of the mill.

The funding, which includes $4m to complete the necessary engineering studies for the biorefinery and provide executive support, brings the opportunity to keep the mill running and build a biorefinery a step closer.

Last month the Federal Government pledged $20m subject to an acceptable business case and additional financial support from the State Government.

The Douglas Shire Council has given $250,000 towards the purchase of the mill business from Mackay Sugar.

More than 86 new jobs will be created following the backing of the precinct, which will allow farmers to use cane to generate energy and plastics. The mill supports 560 jobs.

Yesterday’s pledge is the best Christmas present the Mossman community could have wished for.