Mackay Sugar Accepts Magistrates Decision and Reaffirms Safety Commitment

Mackay Sugar has accepted the sentence handed down by the Mackay Magistrates Court on 21 August 2025, in relation to a workplace health and safety (WHS) incident that occurred in September 2021. The company entered a guilty plea earlier this year, acknowledging the incident in which an employee was injured during a water sampling activity on a local farm. 

The safety, health, and wellbeing of all employees remains the top priority for Mackay Sugar’s operations. The organisation deeply regrets the injury sustained by the employee and continues to develop safer work practices. 

“We acknowledge the Magistrate’s decision and accept the outcomes imposed by the Court,” said Adele Lorimer, General Manager - People, Culture & Health, Safety, Environment. “While we cannot change the past, we are focused on the future, strengthening our safety culture and continuing to reduce risks through improved systems and safer ways of working.” 

Since the incident, Mackay Sugar has continued to implement a number of improvements aimed at minimising personal risk across its operations. These measures include ongoing upgrades to guarding in high-risk areas, improved hazard detection and elimination activities, and the reinforcement of safe work procedures. 

Ms Lorimer added, “We are committed to evolving our safety culture by empowering our workforce and leaders to identify and act on risks before incidents occur. Our focus is on proactive risk management, open communication, and ongoing education.” 

The company continues to work collaboratively with regulatory authorities and industry bodies to align with best practice and ensure compliance with all safety obligations. 

Mackay Sugar acknowledges the vital role that every employee plays in maintaining a safe workplace and thanks its workforce and stakeholders for their commitment to continuous improvement.

Media release