Celebrating 150 Years of
the Harwood Sugar Mill
Sunshine Sugar 150th Harwood Sugar Mill Event Gallery
Join us as we celebrate a century and a half of the Harwood Sugar Mill—a remarkable journey that’s seen Sunshine Sugar
grow from humble beginnings to an integral part of our community. This day was about honouring our heritage,
connecting with the community, and showcasing the spirit that’s kept us going for 150 years. Below, you’ll find
highlights from this unforgettable event: moments of laughter, nostalgia, and pride. Each image captures a piece of
our history, from live demonstrations and vintage machinery to local artisan stalls and family fun.
Employees Stories (Past & Present)
Voices of Harwood : Stories of Dedication and Legacy
Fred
Discover Fred Connor’s inspiring journey from Fitter to Maintenance Lead over 36 years. His story reveals how dedication to craft can evolve into a vital role that keeps the mill running like clockwork.
Vivien
Meet Vivien Miller, a unique blend of Corporate Marketer and Cane Grower. Learn how she’s carved a dual career path, weaving together her love for the land and her skills in communications to promote and protect the sugar industry.
Neil
Uncover Neil Whitby’s path from Station Operator to Production Management, a journey that started in 1989. Experience his insights on how evolving technology has transformed both his role and the Harwood Sugar Mill itself.
Allan
For 47 years, Allan Rooks was a steadfast Boilermaker. Dive into Allan’s story to see how his work has fostered deep bonds and why he considers his colleagues a second family.
Matt
Follow Matt Clarke’s extraordinary rise from Cleaner to Mill Production Manager over nearly three decades. Discover the lessons, challenges, and memories he’s gained from working across almost every role in the Harwood Sugar Mill.
Tony
Experience the legacy of Tony Wiseman, a fourth-generation worker whose family has contributed over 120 years to the Harwood Sugar Mill. Tony’s 30-year journey as Production Planner showcases a lifetime commitment to the sugar industry.
Kevin
Explore Kevin Betteridge’s story as a Shipwright working on vital cane-hauling boats for over 20 years. Learn how his craftsmanship contributed to the industry’s growth and the heritage of the local waterways.
Gary
Meet Gary Tunsted, who spent 27 years as a Fitter and Shift Engineer after 15 years hauling cane. His story captures the essence of a life dedicated to the sugar industry in NSW Northern Rivers.
Leanne
Discover Leanne Mulligan’s journey from Assistant Accountant to Mill Accountant over her 35 years at the Harwood Sugar Mill. She shares how payroll has evolved from cash to digital and her role in transforming financial processes.
Col
Col Harvey’s career has spanned every corner of the Harwood Sugar Mill since he started as an Apprentice in 1979. See how he’s progressed to Maintenance Planner, shaping and supporting every part of the site along the way. Col led the team that pulled together the incredible museum showcasing 150 years of the local sugar industry.
Rex
Rex William Wiseman’s 49-year career began as a Shop Boy and evolved into roles that kept the refinery ticking. His remarkable journey reveals the pride and passion that have defined his decades at the Harwood Sugar Mill.
Ray
Ivan “Ray” Moloney’s journey at the Harwood Sugar Mill began at age 19, building a lifelong career rooted in hard work. Discover how he rose to become a respected figure, shaped by resilience and dedication, with some incredibly interesting stories from his years sprinkled in along the way.
Albert
Ride along with Albert Horton, a dedicated Cane Truck Driver, as he shares the pivotal role transport plays in sustaining the industry and supporting the local community.
Scott
Scott Thompson, the 21st Harwood Sugar Mill Operations Manager, discusses the unique hurdles he faces managing operations in today’s world. Hear his insights on the Harwood Sugar Mill’s rich history and the vital role of infrastructure and teamwork in shaping its future.
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Alan
Learn about Alan Cope’s years as Production Superintendent from 1976, building friendships and memories. His reflections capture how the Harwood Sugar Mill’s evolution mirrors his own personal growth and dedication.
Sugarcane Growers Stories (Past & Present)
Cane Farmers: The Heartbeat of the Industry
Milton
Milton Lewis, a seasoned Cane Farmer, shares his childhood memories and lifelong dedication to sugarcane. Explore his reflections on how the industry has changed, yet his passion remains unwavering after 50 years.
John
John Young’s journey took him from labouring to managing a dynamic family farm operation. Learn how he transformed his livelihood, balancing cattle, pigs, and cane, shaping his farm into a successful enterprise.
Alister
Discover how Northern Rivers’ perfect conditions have nurtured Alister McFarlane’s career as a Cane Grower. His life’s journey is shaped by the land, and he shares the valuable lessons he's learned from it.
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Peter
Peter Rose, Cane Grower and Director of NSW Sugar Milling Co-operative, dives into the mill’s storied history and reveals how technological advances have made farming more efficient and future focused. Peter dedicated hundreds of hours to compiling the outstanding, commemorative History Book.
Doug and Faye
Hear from Doug and Faye Moss about the joys and challenges of cane farming, from the independence of being your own boss to the generational impact of their work on family and community.
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Ross
Ross Farlow, Chairman of the Clarence Cane Growers Association, shares his journey through agriculture and his perspectives on the future of the sugar industry as it faces the challenges of 2024.