In-ground molasses storage: A new variation on an old theme

Prior to 1990, Bingera Mill had storage capacity for 3000 tonnes of final molasses in an above-ground tank. This was about two week's normal production. Local sales were variable and 25000 to 30000 tonnes of molasses per season were transported to the Australian Molasses Pool tanks at Port Bundaberg. In May 1991, it was decided to increase the molasses storage capacity at Bingera to 18000 tonnes by installing an in-ground reservoir to hold 15000 tonnes. Mr D Williams, of Geosynthetic & Civil Engineering, was engaged to supervise the project. A number of local firms surveyed and soil tested the area, designed the molasses reservoir and formed the walls of the pond. Darling Downs Tarpaulins (Toowoomba) procured, laid and fixed the protective under-lay, the liner and the cover membranes.