May 12, 2026
A Development Application has been lodged with the South Burnett Regional Council for the construction of a high-tech bio-fertiliser processing facility north of Nanango.
The proposed facility would be built on the corner of the Burnett Highway and Mondure Crossing Road at Glan Devon.
It would convert up to 120,000 tonnes of biosolids a year – sourced from Queensland wastewater treatment plants – into high-quality fertiliser which could be used on farms.
The biosolids would be dried using energy generated by a thermal conversion process developed by UK-based Xetrov
The Xetrov Vortex system processes non-recyclable waste which would otherwise go into landfill.
Xetrov says this technology produces ultra-low emissions and an inert solid residue which can be used in road construction.
Once dried, the biosolids would be blended with mineral nutrients to create a balanced, locally produced bio-fertiliser which could be used by farmers to improve soil health and boost productivity.
The Development Application has been lodged on behalf of BYV Organics Pty Ltd.
The company says the proposed facility would be a significant step forward for sustainable agriculture, circular economy development, biosolids management and fertiliser security in the South Burnett and Queensland.
Project manager and South Burnett resident Mieke Elder said the benefits of biosolids in agriculture have been evident in the region for many years.
“Biosolids are a highly beneficial and cost-effective source of nutrients for farmland,” Ms Elder said.
“The Glan Devon Bio-Fertiliser Project elevates biosolids use by producing a dry, stable fertiliser that can be stored and applied year-round, regardless of weather conditions, while addressing odour issues associated with the wet product.”
Ms Elder said the project would also contribute to broader sustainability and food security goals.
“This project isn’t just about improving biosolids management. It’s about strengthening fertiliser security, supporting local farmers and ensuring the long-term productivity of our soils.”
BYV Organics says recent global disruptions have highlighted the vulnerability of international supply chains, including the supply of key fertilisers such as urea.
The company says biosolids have been safely used in agriculture in Australia for more than 25 years.
And that over the past three years, about 100,000 tonnes have been safely applied across farms in the South Burnett region.
However, current applications rely on a wet product, which can present challenges, including odour, weather limitations and difficulties in storage and spreading.
BYV Organics says it has designed the proposed facility to address these concerns, including enclosed processing, odour control systems, continuous environmental monitoring and a wide residential buffer.
A Development Application for the project is currently being assessed by the South Burnett Regional Council and the State Assessment Referral Agency.
Ms Elder said community engagement was central to the project, with early consultations already under way.
“We recognise how important this project is to the South Burnett community,” Ms Elder said.
“Your feedback matters, and we are committed to listening, answering questions and addressing concerns as the project progresses.”
She encouraged residents to learn more about the project, ask questions and participate in upcoming information sessions.
