Invicta sugar mill
| Industry | Sugar manufacturing |
|---|---|
| Founded | 4 August 1921 |
| Headquarters | Giru , Australia |
| Products | Raw sugar |
| Owner | Wilmar Sugar |
Giru is a coastal town and locality situated within the Shire of Burdekin, Queensland, Australia. Positioned on the banks of the Haughton River, it lies roughly to the south-east of Townsville. The population recorded at the was 387 residents.
Geography
The area surrounding Giru is largely dedicated to sugarcane cultivation. A prominent industrial landmark in the town is the Invicta sugar mill, operated by Wilmar Sugar Cane Limited, which is distinguished by its three notable chimney stacks.
The Bruce Highway runs adjacent to, but does not pass directly through, the town.
History
The name of both the town and locality traces back to the railway station designated on 31 March 1916. This name was adapted from "goru," a type of sugarcane originating from New Guinea that was successfully grown in this region.
The Invicta Sugar Mill has a rich history involving multiple relocations: initially established on the Richmond River in New South Wales, it was moved to Bucca near Bundaberg in 1906 before finally settling on the Haughton River in the Burdekin area in 1919. Operations commenced at this location on 4 August 1921, playing a significant role in Giru’s growth around the mill site.
Significant developments include the inauguration of the School of Arts Hall on 1 May 1926 and the opening of Giru Post Office by 1922. Giru State School began serving students on 1 October 1924 and celebrated its 50th anniversary in 1974. St Joseph's School functioned from 1945 until its closure in 1998.
Demographics
The recorded population was 354 people according to the . This number rose to 387 by the .
Economy
The Invicta Sugar Mill, owned by Wilmar Sugar, forms the backbone of Giru’s economy, processing close to of raw sugarcane each year.
Education
Giru State School is a public primary institution (Prep–6) located at 45–51 Luxton Street. In 2017, it had an enrollment of 46 students supported by four teachers (equivalent to three full-time) and four non-teaching staff (three full-time equivalent).
No secondary school exists within Giru itself; the closest government secondary education facility is Ayr State High School situated in Ayr to the east.
Amenities
The Giru branch of the Queensland Country Women's Association convenes at the CWA Hall on Carey Street.
The Giru School of Arts Hall can be found on Invicta Street.
Community facilities also include a bowling club, while accommodation is primarily provided by the Giru International Hotel.
Attractions
This locale is recognized for its excellent game fishing opportunities, attracting anglers pursuing prized species such as barramundi and grunter. The boat ramp serves as a favored spot for fishing enthusiasts visiting the area.
Each September, the Giru Show takes place featuring food vendors, homemade cakes, amusement rides, equestrian events, an animal farm, and exhibitions showcasing agricultural machinery.