Harwood Mill

Harwood Mill is a cornerstone of Australia's sugar industry, located on the banks of the Clarence River in Harwood, New South Wales. Operating as a key asset of Sunshine Sugar, it holds the distinguished title of the oldest continuously running sugar mill in Australia, having commenced operations in 1874. This historic mill processes sugarcane grown on approximately 10,000 hectares of rich, local farmland, contributing significantly to the Northern Rivers region's economy and agricultural identity.

As part of the NSW Sugar Milling Co-operative Limited, Harwood Mill is a grower-owned enterprise, a partnership that includes the Australian family-owned agribusiness, Manildra Group. The facility is more than just a milling site; it also co-locates the Manildra Harwood Sugar Refinery, a state-of-the-art freight and logistics warehouse opened in 2020, and serves as a central hub for hundreds of farming families and over 1,000 employees across the broader NSW sugar industry.

Milling and Refining Capabilities at Harwood Mill

Harwood Mill is a comprehensive sugar processing facility. During the crushing season, which runs for approximately six months of the year, the mill operates under a rigorous continuous crushing arrangement—24 hours a day, seven days a week—with scheduled maintenance days held every two to three weeks. This intense schedule allows the facility to efficiently process the massive volume of cane delivered by the local farming network.

The on-site refinery, a result of the long-standing joint venture with Manildra Group, transforms the mill's output into a range of high-quality, finished sugar products. The $9 million warehouse, spanning 4,000 square meters, supports the logistics of distributing over 300 customers across Australia, ranging from food and beverage manufacturers to wholesalers and retailers. Key products include Low GI Sugar, Food Grade Raw Sugar, Molasses and Syrups, White Sugar, Caster Sugar, and a specialized Industrial Range for large-scale manufacturing.

Customer Feedback from Google Maps Reviews

Harwood Mill holds a 3.4-star rating on Google Maps based on a small number of reviews. Feedback often centers on the visual impact of the mill’s operations, with local reviewers and visitors noting occasional plumes of black smoke from the chimney. One reviewer remarked on the need for pollution controls, while another expressed concern about environmental damage. In response, the owner has clarified that such emissions are typically caused by a temporary malfunction in the plant and are highly unusual, emphasizing that all NSW sugar mills comply with strict environmental regulations.

Another reviewer, who grew up in the area, reflected on the mill's historical role in local employment. The owner’s response confirmed that the three NSW mills provide many local jobs, with positions regularly advertised for workers and apprentices. This feedback highlights the mill's dual perception: a vital local employer and a visible industrial operator subject to community environmental scrutiny.

Harwood Mill in the Clarence Valley

Harwood Mill is situated on CSR Road in Harwood, a locality on the banks of the Clarence River in northern New South Wales. The mill’s riverside location is historically significant, as it facilitated the early mechanical loading of sugar onto ships—a Southern Hemisphere first in 1954. The area is part of the beautiful Northern Rivers region, known for its coastal proximity, natural surroundings, and temperate climate, which supports the local sugarcane farming community.

The mill supports a farming footprint of 10,000 hectares and is a key component of the region's infrastructure. While public tours are currently unavailable due to health, hygiene, and safety reasons, the site remains a prominent landmark. For essential access, it is advisable to contact the Harwood Mill office directly via the main phone line at +61 2 6640 0400.

What Sets Harwood Mill Apart

The defining characteristic of Harwood Mill is its uninterrupted history and Australian ownership model. As the oldest continuously operating sugar mill in the country, it has operated for over 150 years, tracing its roots directly to the formation of the Clarence River Sugar Growers Association in 1867. Its 100% Australian ownership through a 50/50 partnership between the NSW Sugar Milling Co-operative and Manildra Group ensures the profits and focus remain within the local industry and community.

Harwood Mill sets itself apart through its vertical integration. Unlike many mills, it offers on-site refining, which allows it to produce a consistent supply of finished products directly from raw cane. Its Bonsucro certification also verifies its commitment to sustainable practices from paddock to pack, covering farming, milling, and refining. Nearby mills, such as Broadwater and Condong, benefit from this integrated model and the shared logistics network, but Harwood's dual milling and refining capability, combined with its new warehouse, makes it a uniquely robust hub within the Sunshine Sugar group.

Common Questions About Harwood Mill

Does Harwood Mill offer public tours?

No. Due to health, hygiene, and safety reasons, Harwood Mill is currently unable to offer tours of its milling, refining, or warehouse facilities. Virtual experiences, including a 360°