Unions representing workers and the operators at the Wilmar Sugar Mills are being urged to focus on the crush — with strike action likely to continue over the coming weeks.

The long running pay dispute is on track to reach binding arbitration in September -meaning the decision by the arbitrator is legally binding and enforceable.

But Canegrowers Australia warns that is too long to wait for a result, and the crush can’t be further delayed.

Rural Editor Emily Minney spoke to Chairman Owen Menkens, who says it’s a frustrating situation.