Thiess commence operation of the South Johnstone Sugar Mill

Issue Date:  28 June 2000
Issued By:  Thiess Pty Ltd

Thiess Pty Ltd has commenced operation of the South Johnstone Sugar Mill in Far North Queensland, following a Letter-of-Intent from the Mill last Friday.

Worth $15M in the first year, the five-year operation and maintenance contract to be signed within a fortnight is the culmination of Thiess and South Johnstone working closely over the past 12 months to determine how operational efficiencies at the mill could be improved.

Thiess Executive General Manager Qld/NT/Pacific Mr Roger Trundle said the company was looking forward to a long and productive relationship with the South Johnstone Mill and its employees.

“We are enthusiastic about contributing to the ongoing growth and development of Queensland’s sugar industry and will be working closely with all South Johnstone stakeholders to improve the long-term viability of the mill,” Mr Trundle said.

Existing employees will remain at the mill. Thiess will be represented by a mill manager, administration manager and safety/environment manager, who will be responsible for all mill services, from pick up of the cane at sidings and dump points to delivery of sugar and molasses to Mourilyan Harbour.

Crushing is currently scheduled to commence mid-July but will be subject to ongoing reviews.

Manager – Infrastructure and Industrial, Process Engineering Mr D’Alessandro said Thiess would initially focus on introducing proven management systems in key areas such as safety, environment, human resources, maintenance and cost control.

“Thiess will work closely with growers and the South Johnstone and Innisfail communities to achieve cost efficiencies. The savings from which will subsequently be used for future investment in mill infrastructure and technological upgrades – therefore ensuring continued improvement in the mill’s performance,” Mr D’Alessandro said.

While Thiess is new to the sugar industry, the company has extensive experience in operation and maintenance contracts in a range of industries, including mining, oil and gas, telecommunications, public transport, power generation, water supply and rail maintenance.

Ends.

Released by Thiess Pty Ltd - ABN 87 010 221 486

For further information contact:
Ms Fiona Murcott
Public Affairs Manager
Ph: 0419 758 196