Tully Sugar Mill: A Sweet Slice of Qld

Discover the Tully Sugar Mill Tour, one of the most unique things to do in Tully, Queensland. From its rich industrial history to the unforgettable smell of sweet, crushed cane, this behind-the-scenes experience takes you into the heart of Australia’s sugar industry — and yes, you even get to chew on fresh sugarcane.

Why the Tully Sugar Mill Tour Is Worth Visiting in Tropical North Queensland

Deep in the heart of the Cassowary Coast lies Tully — a town known for its tropical rain, sugarcane fields, and a working sugar mill that still powers the region’s economy. The Tully Sugar Mill Tour is more than a factory visit; it’s a front-row seat to one of Australia’s most iconic agricultural industries.

This immersive experience lets you walk through the sights, sounds, and smells of a real operating mill. You’ll feel the heat of the furnaces, watch raw cane being crushed into syrup, and even try a chunk of cane straight from the field. It’s a rare peek into a living industry and a surprisingly fun sensory adventure.

And while you’re in town, don’t miss the chance to visit the Big Golden Gumboot — a quirky Aussie landmark that celebrates Tully’s title as one of the wettest towns in Australia. Snap a photo, climb the internal staircase for a view of the surrounding cane fields, and enjoy a bit of fun before or after your tour.

What to Expect at the Tully Sugar Mill

The tour begins with a short introduction at the Tully Visitor and Heritage Centre before you suit up for safety and head into the mill. A local guide, often a former worker, brings the place to life with stories of long hours, sticky fingers, and the sweet science behind sugar.

Tour highlights include:

• Watching harvested cane stalks get crushed and processed

• Smelling the earthy sweetness of evaporating juice and molasses

• Seeing furnaces and centrifuges in action

• Tasting a stick of fresh sugarcane — juicy, fibrous, and fun to chew

• Learning about the mill’s role in Tully’s economy and culture

Safety is top priority. You’ll be provided with:

• High-vis vest and safety glasses

• A hard hat

• Ear protection (it gets noisy!)

It’s a fascinating combination of old-school industry and essential Aussie agriculture — something rarely open to the public.

A Brief History of the Tully Sugar Mill

The Tully Sugar Mill was established in 1925, playing a vital role in shaping the economy and community of Far North Queensland. Still in operation today, it processes hundreds of thousands of tonnes of cane each season and remains one of Australia’s key sugar producers. Owned by Tully Sugar Limited, the mill reflects a century-old legacy of hard work, innovation, and tropical farming.

🎥 Watch this short video about the Tully Sugar Mill.

Planning your road trip through Tropical North Queensland? Don’t miss the Tully Sugar Mill Tour — it’s a sweet slice of Aussie industry.
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