Biodiesel boom tipped for Mackay area in Queensland
October 02, 2007
The Mackay economy and local farmers could reap the rewards from plans to develop Australia's largest million biodiesel plant near the city's commercial harbour.
Queensland Transport Minister John Mickel said an in-principle agreement signed with Queensland Biodiesel today was the first step in paving the way for the construction of $50 million bio-diesel plant, capable of producing 180 million litres of alternative fuel a year.
Queensland Primary Industries Minister and Member for Mackay Tim Mulherin says, once approved, the bio-diesel project will initially be made from imported renewable resources such as soybean, sunflower and canola.
"Eventually crops will be sourced throughout the region creating new opportunities and revenue streams for farmers, particularly canegrowers."
He says soybean could emerge as a viable alternative for canegrowers with the "cane-growing industry is extremely vulnerable to global influences, and soybean could provide a safety net".