Manildra Group Faces Scrutiny Over Dangerous Incidents and Safety Concerns

Incident Overview

Between 2020 and 2024, the Manildra Group’s Shoalhaven Starches facility in Bomaderry on the NSW south coast reported 55 dangerous incidents and 31 serious injuries, according to data obtained by the ABC through Freedom of Information requests. The pattern of incidents has prompted heightened scrutiny from SafeWork NSW and calls for stronger enforcement action.

Among the most significant events was the collapse of two 30-metre-tall wheat silos in October 2024, which spilled hundreds of tonnes of grain into the Shoalhaven River, and a week-long grain silo fire in May 2024 that forced the evacuation of dozens of workers and established an exclusion zone affecting nearby businesses and traffic.

Between 2020 and 2024, the Manildra Group’s Shoalhaven Starches facility in Bomaderry on the NSW south coast reported 55 dangerous incidents and 31 serious injuries, according to data obtained by the ABC through Freedom of Information requests. The pattern of incidents has prompted heightened scrutiny from SafeWork NSW and calls for stronger enforcement action.

SafeWork NSW has intensified monitoring of Manildra Group’s operations and dispatched inspectors to assess compliance with safety regulations. In 2024 alone, the regulator issued 24 improvement notices to the company, bringing the total to over 80 since 2020. However, many specific incident details remain undisclosed due to redactions in official documents provided by SafeWork NSW.

Electrical Trade Union organiser Stewart Edward described the situation as “beyond alarming” and warned that fatalities could occur if action is not taken, calling for stricter enforcement and greater accountability. Local resident Kylie Knight stated that the community has lost confidence in Manildra Group’s ability to prevent future disasters and advocated for regular community meetings to address safety concerns. Kiama MP Gareth Ward called for greater transparency from SafeWork NSW and effective enforcement of workplace laws.

SafeWork NSW is continuing its investigation into safety practices at the Bomaderry facility. Workers, contractors, or members of the public with information about unsafe conditions or incidents at Shoalhaven Starches are encouraged to contact SafeWork NSW on 13 10 50 or lodge a report via the online incident-reporting form at safework.nsw.gov.au.