Graduate Projects

Converting sugarcane trash into garden mulch: 2006

Project:
Value add to the sugar cane crop by converting ‘trash’ into garden mulch.

Project Leader:
Marina Fagg, Grower, Queensland

Aim:
Undertake a feasibility study to explore the commercial viability of converting sugarcane mulch into garden mulch as a means of value adding to the crop.

Background:
In the Burdekin sugarcane region where irrigation and rainfall combine to produce immense amounts of ‘trash’ (leafy undergrowth) it was believed that the potential to onsell the trash as garden mulch may have potential as a means of value adding.

Approach:

• Researched what has been done to date in terms of using ‘trash’ to value add.
• Consulted with other farmers to gauge their interest in participating in a venture.
• Researching markets.
• Preparing a report.

Challenges:
Lack of confidence to undertake a project outside of my experience.

Outcomes:
Conclusion that at this stage recycling ‘trash’ for garden mulch is not a viable business proposition.