Queensland University of Technology (QUT) has invested $18 million to upgrade its Mackay-based Pioneer BioPilot into a pilot-scale fermentation facility. The upgrade supports Queensland’s goal to become a regional biomanufacturing hub.
Funded by the Australian and Queensland governments and partnered with Australia’s Food and Beverage Accelerator (FaBA), the facility now supports food-grade bioproduct development. It enables companies to collaborate with QUT researchers on dietary alternatives and sustainable solutions.
Professor Ian O’Hara said the BioPilot has been key for industry for 15 years, converting biomass like sugarcane into biofuels and bioproducts. The upgraded facility now offers advanced fermentation bioreactors for product development.
The facility helps companies accelerate ideas from laboratory research to commercial production, particularly in the food and beverage sector. Sugarcane, which Queensland produces predominantly, is central to these biomanufacturing efforts.
The project aligns with Queensland’s vision for primary industries in Prosper 2050, turning biomass into high-value products locally. It supports industry growth and innovation in the region.
Already, the facility is supporting projects such as a $5.5 million partnership with Eclipse Ingredients to commercialize human lactoferrin, a protein with health benefits.
FaBA’s investment emphasizes precision fermentation, enabling companies of all sizes to develop new ingredients and products. This strengthens Australia’s food and beverage manufacturing sector.
Chris Downs from FaBA noted that the partnership bridges science and industry, helping scale innovations from lab to market in Queensland. The upgraded BioPilot positions Queensland as a leader in biomanufacturing and sustainable food solutions.
