Digging in Podcast for the Wet Tropics Major Integrated Project

DIGGING IN PODCAST: EPISODE 1

EPISODE 1

Greg Shannon: Cane Productivity and Development Manager – Tully Sugar Ltd

21 OCTOBER 2020

For 95 years the sugar mill has been a proud landmark in the township Tully. Standing on the banks of the Banyan River, it’s deeply engrained in the area’s history and the thriving community that call Tully home.

In this episode, Fiona talks to Tully Sugar Limited’s Cane Productivity and Development Manager, Greg Shannon. As a self-confessed amateur historian, Greg has a broad knowledge of the past and how it’s shaped the story of cane farming.

From cane cutter gang culture, the connection between Rugby League and the sugar industry, to the modern-day challenges and opportunities, you’ll get an insight into the past and how the the Tully Sugar mill is working towards a strong and sustainable future.

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Digging In

Join Fiona George as she digs deep to uncover incredible stories from the Tully agriculture industry. From humble beginnings by the Banyan to a multi-million-dollar industry and lifeblood of local communities. Explore the history, challenges and opportunities and how the MIP is bringing farmers, industry, science and community together.

Ray Zamora is a leader in regenerative agriculture in the Tully district. His “outside the square” thinking and approach to farming has shaped the way he grows sugar cane.

Fiona was lucky enough to sit beside the cool flowing waters of Murray Falls to record this episode. “Murray Falls are the source of the Murray River and we farm on the Murray River flood plains. You can almost feel the energy in the water here,” Ray said.

Hear about Ray’s zero till planting regime, why he focuses on soil health and what drives him to try new things and “push the boundaries” of traditional farming.