Manildra Group to pay US$113,000 for Shoalhaven silo collapse
Company will fund projects to protect local waterways and community.
AUSTRALIA – Manildra Group, an Australian wheat processor and global agribusiness, will pay US$113,000 (A$170,000) under an enforceable undertaking with the New South Wales Environment Protection Authority following a silo collapse at its Shoalhaven Starches plant in Bomaderry.
In October 2024, two grain silos collapsed and a third suffered damage, releasing over 2,000 tonnes of wheat grain into the Shoalhaven River.
The company acted quickly to remove the grain from the water and limit environmental damage. Safework NSW continues to investigate the cause of the collapse.
“While water monitoring by Shoalhaven Starches and the EPA showed no significant environmental harm to the river, the incident required strong regulatory action,” said Stephen Beaman, NSW EPA executive director of operations.
“Enforceable undertakings hold companies accountable and ensure projects deliver lasting benefits for both the environment and local communities.”
As part of the agreement, Shoalhaven Starches will fund the installation of track racks on a nearby creek to improve water health, carry out foreshore protection and bank stabilization works, support rehabilitation initiatives, and provide fish cleaning stations.
The NSW EPA has also required the company to hire an independent expert to conduct an environmental hazard analysis. The study will assess risks and suggest measures to prevent future pollution incidents. The analysis is expected to finish by late 2026.
Shoalhaven Starches is among the largest wheat starch and gluten plants globally, processing over 1 million tonnes of wheat each year. It operates alongside the company’s ethanol facility, contributing to both domestic and export markets.
Manildra Group’s agreement with the EPA signals a commitment to responsible operations while addressing the environmental risks posed by large-scale grain storage and processing. The company confirmed that it will work closely with local stakeholders to ensure all corrective measures are implemented effectively.
“We remain committed to supporting the local community and protecting the environment around our operations,” a Manildra Group spokesperson said.
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