SMOLT Magazine - Edition 2

Edition 2

smolt Celebrating our people l our community l our science l our industry

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Our Snapshots Have you taken an amazing photo recently?

If so, send it to admin@salmontas.au If your photo is published you will receive a $50 visa card from Salmon Tasmania.

Macquarie Harbour - Stuart Harris

Resident platypus - Will Clark

Will Clark - Resident platypus - Millybrook Hatchery Okehampton Bay - Tom Middleton

Matt Barrenger - The Mill Pond, Strahan

edition 1 Welcome to Smolt Magazine

4

Our heritage

6

Celebrating our industry

10

Opinion Luke Martin

12

MaC Harbour oxygenation project 14

D’Entrecasteaux Channel - Ben Oakley

Electrona - Ben Oakley

the Wombat breathing life

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From ocean to opportunity

22

Storm Bay engagement kicks off

28

World-First robotic technology

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Sustainability award for Tassal

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Charity donations

36

Community ocommitment

39

Celebrating our people

40

Savouring our salmon

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Cover photo: Diving in Macquarie Harbour Credit: Matt Scott Published by Salmon Tasmania Contact admin@salmontas.au

Welcome

from Salmon Tasmania

Lyall Howard Chair

Luke Martin

Chief Executive Officer

Matt Barrenger Technical Director

Stuart Harris

Communications Director

We have had a wonderful response to the first issue of SMOLT Magazine.

event, Ales & Salmon Tails-is a genuine sign of a strong and united industry.

There is no shortage of amazing stories to share and we are really pleased to present edition 2.

If you haven’t managed to make it along to an Ales & Salmon Tails please keep an eye out for the next one to be held near you. These are fun and relaxed gatherings uniting people and

We feel that this magazinealong with our networking

Christine Schwugier Project Officer

stakeholders from across our industry.

To keep in the loop you can join our mailing list via the link below.

We hope you enjoy Edition 2.

Regards, The Salmon Tasmania Team

Subscribe Make sure you don’t miss future editions of SMOLT Magazine.

Subscribe to our mailing list.

Click or scan QR code to subscribe

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Tasmania’s first

comprehensive economic analysis of the salmon industry’s contribution to Tasmania has been completed by Deloitte Access Economics confirming...

Tasmania’s salmon industry is Australia’s most

VALUABLE seafood sector, worth $1.36 BILLION

86%

Tasmania’s

LARGEST primary industry

of Tasmania’s total seafood production

providing

with

5,103

out of

full time equivalent jobs Read the full report.

Click or scan the QR code:

9 10

of those jobs are in regional Tasmania

In Latrobe, Tasman & West Coast

17

%

salmontasmania.au/vital

of all jobs are related to the salmon industry

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our heritage When Norwegian expertise was lured to Tasmania in the 1980s to help steer the rise of the Atlantic salmon industry, it came in the person of Jan Gjovik. As the Project Manager for Tasmania’s joint venture with Noraqua, the biologist’s mission was to exploit Norwegian know-how to spark a lasting success story in Tasmania.

Jan Gjovik loved the look of Tasmania and saw its potential on his first reconnaissance visit in 1984: ‘I was impressed first of all with the beauty of Tasmania and I thought if I’m going to move away from beautiful Norway, I certainly wouldn’t regret it, if I went to Tasmania.’

The following year, in only his mid-‘30s, Jan was posted halfway around the world as part of Noraqua’s global expansion, but it took him a while to realise the term ‘Taswegian’ wasn’t reserved for expats from Norway: ‘I thought it was in honour of the fact I had a foot in

both places,’ he recalls. ‘But it turned out to be an old saying, one also used to describe the locals.’ He was to have an enormous responsibility in driving the future viability of expansion of Atlantic salmon farming as a director of Tassal, a director of Salmon Enterprises of Tasmania, and as technical advisor to the Saltas R&D Committee, as well as being on the Board of Nortas. He’d already gained experience in husbandry, facility design, production planning and marketing and was about to transfer those skills to saltwater salmon farming in Tasmania.

He said it was Tasmania’s Chief of Fisheries Research Trevor Dix who’d first sparked Norway’s interest in Tasmania when he contacted geneticist Professor Harald Skjervold, who was to visit Melbourne to speak at a horse-breeding conference in 1982-83: ‘Trevor went to Melbourne and invited him to Tasmania. Harald Skjervold went with Trevor, had a look around, got the information he need-

Saltas Hawkers Point acclimatisation tanks - 1986

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Jan Gjovik

ed and concluded this must be close to the ideal place to do Atlantic salmon farming.’

Jan Gjovik always counted himself as a true Taswegian and retains an enduring interest in the local Atlantic salmon industry he helped kick-start at the opposite end of the world.

As a scientific research officer, Mick Hortle ran the early trials and quarantining of Atlantic salmon, which were the basis of today’s thriving industry.

In a career which took in Tasmania’s advances and milestones, Mick’s philosophy remained constant: ‘Those who invested time and expertise in understanding and growing the fish knew best how to manage them.’

Mick Hortle would always tell his staff ‘you’re not wasting time standing by a pen, just watching fish.’ It’s a rule he lived by himself, spending a lot of time walking around salmon pens watching fish behave under a whole range of environmental conditions and then how they’d respond during handling: ‘I always thought that was a really important part of what it was to be a good fish farmer. It’s a bit like having green fingers as a gardener – call them “blue fingers” if you like.

Trevor Dix used to always call it his “spiritual guts” – but if you knew the animal, you could get a feel for them and an understanding of them and sometimes you knew things were going to happen, you couldn’t put any science to it, just knowing the animal or having an affinity with the animal. The art of stockmanship, no different to being a good farmer of any land animal.’

His first role with salmonids came when he was offered work on a feasibility project on saltwater culture of rainbow trout (in February 1980). Mick stayed doing applied research work until the end of 1987, determining the smolt window to put fish to sea earlier as well as photo-period manipulation to allow the industry to extend its harvest season. It was pioneering research in its day in an environment quite different from Scotland or Norway. Mick was headhunted by Tassal to be their Research Officer (Marine Biology) from mid-1988, and for

Mick Hortle

the next 30 years filled many different roles at Tassal, Van Diemen Aquaculture, Tasmanian Salmonid Growers Association, Seafood and Maritime Training and as an independent consultant.

Mick Hortle & Craig Foster

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Macquarie Harbour

Thank You

On Saturday 23 September, the Premier of Tasmania Jeremy Rockliff, Minister for Primary Industries Jo Palmer MLC and West Coast Mayor Shane Pitt visited the workers of Macquarie Harbour to add their voices and show their support to the people and communities of Tasmania’s West Coast.

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Click or scan to Watch the video

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Hobart

Ales & Salmon Tails

Salmon Tasmania has commenced a program of monthly networking events “Ales & Salmon Tails” which are a free, casual get together for industry staff and stakeholders. If you haven’t attended one yet be sure to keep an eye out for the next one in your area.

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STRAHAN

Huonville

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Saving the maugean skate

Luke Martin, CEO, Salmon Tasmania

Tasmanians have been farming salmon in Macquarie Harbour for almost 40 years now.

There are second generations of local families who feed, monitor, dive, research, process, and transport salmon as part of this highly integrated Tasmanian industry.

In fact, there are around 400 Tasmanian jobs directly tied to salmon farming in Macquarie Harbour, on the West Coast, in Latrobe and Devonport, and across the State.

While we all want to ensure the survival of the Maugean Skate, it is important facts are at the centre of this discussion.

Macquarie Harbour is a complex estuarine environment and potential threats to the skate

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are many - climate change, gillnet fishing, hydro damming, historic mining sediment and predetation.

has already disappeared from Bathurst Harbour where there is no aquaculture whatsoever.

Yes, salmon is one of several industries operating in Macquarie Harbour, but correlation does not equal causation.

Secondly, the industry has more than halved its biomass levels in the Harbour since 2017 and this has made zero difference to dissolved oxygen levels.

Firstly, the Maugean Skate, originally the Port Davey Skate,

Thirdly, there are signs of improving oxygen levels within

the Harbour in 2023, but there is just as much evidence to suggest this could be due to recent climatic events and varying hydro releases.

There are absolutely no guarantees that taking the easy route and blaming salmon will help to save the skate. But what is 100 per cent certain is that reducing aquaculture in Macquarie Harbour will cost jobs and devastate communities.

In a small town like Strahan, it would be catastrophic, with one in every three jobs directly linked to salmon operations.

It is easy for activists sitting at their keyboards in Hobart or Canberra to dismiss these workers and their livelihoods.

Some of the commentary over recent weeks has been heartless, and sadly representative of the very worst of the conservation movement’s anti-industry tradition.

Let’s be clear, this industry will not concede one single fish or one single job, and we caution the Environment Minister Tanya

Plibersek from being captive to loud green groups as she considers the future of the skate.

project to improve and regulate dissolved oxygen levels in Macquarie Harbour.

What is needed is a sensible and outcome focussed plan to secure the species and improve its habitat.

The Macquarie Harbour Oxygenation Project is a major investment by industry and reflects our genuine intent to make a meaningful contribution to the combined effort to secure the skate’s future.

The Australian Government has already announced funding for an insurance population and breeding program, while the salmon industry is leading a

Let’s make sure that whatever actions are taken, are based on science and fact, not politicking and scapegoating.

Click or scan to Watch the video

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Macquarie Harbour Oxygenation Project - MHOP The Federal Government’s conservation report on the Maugean Skate identified that one of the impacts on the Harbour that may affect the skate is dissolved oxygen.

What is happening there at the moment, and what is dissolved oxygen?

There are a range of factors influencing the oxygen levels in the Harbour such as: • • • • •

High volume fresh water inputs from Hydro power generation.

Treated wastewater from human activity.

Increasing oceanic water temperature.

Mining runoff through river systems.

Organic imputs from salmon farming.

So, what can be done about this?

For our part, the salmon industry has announced a partnership with the Australian Government’s Fisheries Research & Development Corporation (FRDC), in a major initiative to stimulate dissolved oxygen levels in Macquarie Harbour.

This initiative is called the Macquarie Harbour Oxygenation Project, or MHOP for short.

The Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) is involved as well and will lead the scientific evaluation program, to assess the efficacy and environmental response to the oxygenation trials.

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So how will it work?

The industry operations team will place a barge called ‘The Wombat’ on Macquarie Harbour with pumps that draw water from depth.

Highly concentrated micro and nano bubbles of oxygen will be injected into that water, before being released back into the deeper, low DO sections of the

Harbour, elevating its dissolved oxygen levels through passive diffusion and natural mixing.

You would think the bubbles would simply rise to the surface, but they are so small they stay in the water column and slowly spread around the Harbour with the natural flow of water currents, benefiting the whole waterway.

This technology is used successfully in marine and esturine environments all over the world, including in a major project running over the past 20 years to support Perth’s Swan River estuary.

Our objective Our objective is to trial this technology in Macquarie Harbour over the next two summers to test whether it could form part of a long-term strategy to improve the Harbour environment for the Maugean Skate, while responding to the challenge of warming waters and other climatic factors.

At a minimum, we aim to offset oxygen drawdown of our own salmon aquaculture activities in the Harbour, and further reduce the impact of our operations.

Stay tuned, as the results of the trial will be made available to the public and stakeholders as they are recorded.

Our investment The project is expected to cost in excess of $6 million over the next two years and represents the industry’s major contribution to the Maugean Skate Conservation Recovery Plan, as we take the lead to further offset the impact of our operations on the marine environment.

We can strike a balance between conservation outcomes, and the economic and social wellbeing of regional Tasmania, and the salmon industry is determined to lead this important initiative.

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“The Wombat” Breathing New Life into Macquarie Harbour

Currently, in the beautiful D’Entrecasteaux Channel, a significant transformation is underway as a sturdy barge named “The Wombat” prepares for its new role as a vital player in the Macquarie Harbour Oxygenation Project.

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This innovative salmon industry initiative, in conjunction with the Fisheries Research & Development Corporation and with the assistance of the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, is a major investment, designed to stimulate dissolved oxygen (DO) levels in the Harbour.

Currently docked at Margate, “The Wombat” is in the midst of a thorough fitting-out process, where it will be equipped with state-of-the-art oxygenation equipment.

This specialised gear is designed to infuse the Harbor’s waters with the oxygen needed to combat issues such as low DO. Once this vital installation is complete, “The Wombat” will embark on a journey to the Domain slipway, where the final phase of fitting out and painting will be carried out.

This significant work includes biosecurity compliance work that will allow zone transfer and Chief Veterinary Officer signoff.

This work will ensure that the barge is not only functionally efficient, but also visually appealing, ready to take its place as a key solution to the health and future of the Harbour.

The Macquarie Harbour Oxygenation Project represents a remarkable commitment to the environment and the commu-

nities that depend on the Harbour’s resources.

“The Wombat”, with its purpose-driven transformation, symbolises the dedication and collaboration needed to overcome ecological challenges and protect this precious aquatic ecosystem.

As “The Wombat” prepares to fulfill its critical mission, it brings renewed hope for the future of Macquarie Harbour and stands as a testament to the power of innovative solutions in safeguarding our natural treasures.

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JANIE FINLAY MP TAKES A TOUR OF SKRETTING Thank you Janie Finlay MP for joining us on a tour of Skretting Australia’s Cambridge facility.

It was great to hear Skretting’s story and learn how the high performance of aquafeed, made right here in Tasmania, has led to salmon being one of the most sustainable and efficient proteins in the world.

Thank you for your ongoing support Janie.

Senator Urquhart - Taking our message to canberra On Thursday 5 October, Senator Anne Urquhart came to Macquarie Harbour to listen to industry workers and to add their voices to her support of the people and communities of Tasmania’s West Coast.

Thank you Senator for taking their messages back to Canberra.

It is time their voices were heard.

Click or scan to Watch the video

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Western Regional Strategic Partnership Salmon Tasmania is proud to be a part of the Tasmanian Government’s Western Strategic Regional Partnership Agreement (SRPA).

The SRPA is a partnership with Premier Jeremy Rockliff, the Tasmanian Government, the

West Coast Council, Tasmanian Minerals, Manufacturing and Energy Council, Hydro Tasmania, Westcoast Renewable Energy Ltd and Regional Development Australia.

This coming together of industry, community and

government, under the framework of the SRPA, is designed to eliminate the problems that Tassie’s West Coast faces such as declining populations and the subsequent reduction of housing, services and amenity.

Senator Tammy Tyrrel visits Petuna On 22 September, Senator Tammy Tyrrell took the time to tour Petuna’s East Devonport processing facility.

The Senator took the opportunity to talk to staff to better understand the importance of salmon farming, and the jobs in North West Tasmania that rely on the Devonport processing facility.

It was a great opportunity to show the Senator first hand how integral our industry is to the Tasmanian economy and community, and we thank her for taking the time to learn more about our industry.

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Salmon Tasmania CEO meets with west coast council CEO Luke Martin was on the West Coast recently visiting the industry’s operations.

Luke took the opportunity to meet with the full West Coast Council to discuss the industry’s future in Macquarie Harbour.

Salmon has been farmed on the West Coast for more than three decades and the industry today is responsible for 17% of all employment in the region.

Salmon farmers and the council share a common perspective to support the recovery and conservation of the Maugean Skate and a vibrant future for aquaculture on the West Coast.

Janie Finlay & Dean Winter head west Janie Finlay and Dean Winter made a surprise visit to Strahan and Macquarie Harbour in show of their support for the industry.

They had a great day out on the water as the crew from Tassal showed Janie and Dean the ropes.

It was an opportunity to showcase our great people, and a great Tassie industry producing the worlds best seafood.

Clarence City Council visits Skretting Thank you Brendan Blomeley, Mayor of Clarence City Council and Councillor Heather Chong for coming on a tour of the Skretting facility at Cambridge.

Skretting employ 125 people in Tasmania, with around 100 of them at Cambridge in the Clarence municipality.

It was a great opportunity to demonstrate the science and research that goes into producing high quality and sustainable fish feed.

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Celebrating the 30,000th tonne of exported aquafeed Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff recently joined Rhys Hauler, Marketing Manager, Skretting Australia and Luke Martin, CEO, Salmon Tasmania to celebrate the one-year anniversary of Skretting’s commitment to the Australian and New Zealand aquaculture industries.

that’s about 2.5 x the annual value of Tasmanian wine production.

It not only underpins Tasmanian salmon aquaculture but is also fast becoming a major Tasmanian export.

“The fact that aquafeed produced in Tasmania is sought out at an international scale reinforces the fact that Tasmania is a global leader in aquaculture,” Mr Hauler said.

In the past 12 months, Skretting has exported 30,000 tonnes of feed for fin fish and prawns.

Marking the occasion was the momentous achievement of shipping their 30,000th tonne of aquafeed, a testament to the company’s dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence.

Fish feed is now Tasmania’s single most valuable export commodity to New Zealand.

“We are immensely proud to be celebrating one year of operation of the Eidsvaag Omega, and to be acknowledging the milestone of exporting 30,000 metric tonnes of feed via this vessel.”

$500 milllon-worth of fish feed is produced in Tasmania every year. To put this in perspective,

Rhys Hauler said Skretting has always prided itself on delivering excellence in all aspects of its service, ensuring innovation was at the heart of the business.

Fish feed is certainly an unsung hero of Tasmanian manufacturing.

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From Ocean to Opportunity How the Tas-

Growing more than just salmon

In the pristine waters of Tasmania, where rugged landscapes meet crystal-clear ocean, a thriving salmon industry has not only fed the appetites of seafood lovers worldwide but has also given birth to a ripple effect of opportunity.

As the Tasmanian salmon industry continues to grow, it has allowed other businesses,

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such as robotics, feed manufacturing, transport, infrastructure and equipment development, to expand their operations into national and international markets.

The Tasmanian salmon industry is our own story of how a single industry has become the cornerstone for a diverse tapestry of success.

salmon industry. These robots have become indispensable tools for monitoring salmon pens, ensuring fish health, and collecting environmental data, all while reducing the need for human divers.

Underwater innovativation making waves.

From the heart of Kingston, SOsub, a local company specialising in underwater innovation is making waves.

The company specialises in designing and manufacturing underwater robots that play a crucial role in the Tasmanian

The success is a testament to the symbiotic relationship between technology and aquaculture.

With a global demand for sustainable seafood production, SOsub’s robotic expertise not only enhances efficiency within the industry but also opens doors to international markets, contributing to the growth of Tasmania’s tech sector.

The rise of sustainable fish feed With a booming salmon industry, the demand for highquality fish feed has surged, paving the way for innovative companies like BioMar and Skretting to craft sustainable and nutritious feed for the thriving salmon population.

These feeds ensure the salmon’s health, while also addressing environmental concerns.

These companies have harnessed the power of research and development to create a feed that minimises waste and optimises nutrient absorption.

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As the industry continues to expand, feed manufacturing has grown in support. Moreover, the companies now export their products to international markets, serving as a shining example of how the salmon industry indirectly propels the success of it’s supply chain.

Building a bridge to success: infrastructure development The salmon industry requires a complex network of infrastructure, including processing plants, cold storage facilities, and transportation systems. This demand for infrastructure has given rise to companies specialising in construction, logistics, and engineering.

Tasmania’s Mitchell Plastic Welding is one such success story.

The company has thrived as a leading player in

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infrastructure development, having designed and constructed state-of-the-art pens for the salmon industry.

This marine farm infrastructure is not only essential to the industry’s operations but also provides employment opportunities in regional areas, ultimately contributing to Tasmania’s economic growth.

The Tasmanian salmon industry has also created a demand for cutting-edge transportation solutions.

Local logistics companies have been able to expand their services by catering to the specialised needs of the salmon industry, including the efficient delivery of seafood products to international markets.

This expansion has not only benefited the salmon industry but has also opened doors for other local businesses.

Tasmania’s salmon industry goes global The growth of the Tasmanian salmon industry has had a profound impact on the local economy. In addition to the companies mentioned above, it has fueled growth in the service sector, including marketing, environmental monitoring, and information technology.

These businesses have found opportunities in catering to the needs of the salmon industry, supporting its sustainability and international reach.

Furthermore, the salmon industry’s commitment to sustainability and responsible aquaculture practices has enhanced Tasmania’s reputation as a global leader in eco-friendly seafood production.

This reputation has positioned Tasmanian salmon as a premium product in international markets,

commanding higher prices and contributing significantly to the island’s economy.

The growth of the Tasmanian salmon industry has created a ripple effect of opportunity that transcends oceans and borders, connecting local businesses to national and international markets.

As Tasmania’s salmon industry continues to set an example of sustainable aquaculture practices, its success story serves as an inspiration to entrepreneurs and businesses worldwide.

It’s a testament to how one industry, rooted in the pristine waters of Tasmania, can provide a springboard for growth, innovation, and prosperity, fostering a thriving community in the heart of the island’s rugged beauty.

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Huon heads to norway for aquanor 2023

Aqua Nor 2023 the world’s largest aquaculture technology trade fair - was recently held in Trondheim, Norway.

It was a fantastic opportunity for some Huon leaders to engage with industry leaders from all around the world.

Aqua Nor showcases the newest aquaculture innovations with over 25,000 attendees from 76 nations. The team saw

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the latest technology advancements across the entire supply chain including breeding, feed, biomass control, nets, safety equipment, well boats, handling of fish and veterinary medicine.

And of course, who has the biggest well boat, which despite some debate, Huon still holds the title.

In addition to the trade show, the team did a range of site visits where they were able to observe the new systems and designs in action which was invaluable and will inform Huon’s own technology development and adoption.

Some teams visited Scotland and Ireland looking at farms that had innovative pen designs and new farming practices, some went to Denmark and the

Faroe Islands to see offshore farms, processing facilities and hybrid wellboats, others toured Norway visiting RAS systems, and hatcheries, with everyone coming back full to the brim with ideas, designs and technologies to make the company more efficient and continue to be on the cutting edge of fish farming.

Overall the event provided an excellent way to ensure Huon is continuing to be a world leader in aquaculture technology, and was an important forum to share knowledge and ensure the industry as a whole is moving in a more sustainable and high energy direction.

Salmon industry flourishes as exports soar!

L-R Senator Don Farrell, Kate Dawe - Tassal Salmon Shop, Nick Tandy, Polyfoam

Tasmania has emerged as a key player in the global Atlantic salmon market, rivalling major producers like Norway, Chile, and New Zealand after sending 80,959 tonnes of salmon to 21 countries over the past five years, bringing the industry on track to exceed $1 billion in exports over the past five years.

While recently in Hobart for a meeting of the national cabinet, Federal Minister for Trade, Senator Don Farrell said, “There were wonderful opportunities for Tasmania, and Australia, in exporting our salmon products.

We’re on the cusp of a huge boom, having hit the $1 billion mark.

“Vietnam, the Philippines, and Indonesia – they all like our food and we have a very good reputation for clean and green products, and salmon fits the bill there.”

CEO Salmon Tasmania, Luke Martin said “The milestone

underscored the significant impact of the salmon industry on the region’s economic development and trade, and was expected to hit the $1 billion target by the end of the year.

Polyfoam, which manufacturers fish boxes for the Tasmanian aquaculture sector, is typical of the many small businesses which rely on the $1-billion export salmon industry to thrive and grow in the state.

“Atlantic salmon exports constituted an impressive 75 percent of all seafood exports” Mr Martin said. “99.84 percent of exported salmon is fresh or chilled products, interlocking with Tasmania’s brand and reputation for farming high quality, fresh produce.”

The family owned Australian business is just about to double capacity due to demand from the aquaculture sector, with the impending opening of a state of the art $10-million facility at Westbury, creating even more regional jobs.

The consistently growing trend in the export figures over the years highlights the robustness of Tasmania’s salmon industry.

Notably, the annual growth rate of Atlantic salmon exports since the 2018-2019 fiscal year has been an impressive 28.6 per cent. In contrast, overall merchandise exports from Tasmania have only grown at a rate of 5 per cent annually during the same period.

Polyfoam General Manger, Nick Tandy said without the aquaculture sector, the business would not exist in Tasmania.

“We are proud to support the aquaculture industry and we have grown with the sector in Tasmania, since starting our first facility in the 1980s,” Mr Tandy said.

“Without aquaculture, we would not manufacture in Tasmania and employ Tasmanians”.

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Storm Bay A commitment to bestpractice community engagement

Environment Minister Roger Jaensch, Primary Industries Min set off for a tour of Petuna’s Storm Bay lease with the comp Sealord CEO Doug Paulin and Petuna CEO Rocky Boschman.

Petuna has started engaging with key stakeholders and community groups in the southeast of the state, with the aim of informing them and gaining their feedback about proposed changes to the company’s Storm Bay lease.

Petuna’s Storm Bay lease was approved in 2019, but the original lease configuration needs to be changed to comply with new Tasmanian biosecurity standards, requiring a minimum distance of four kilometres between fish year classes (fish of different ages).

The reconfiguration proposal will need to go through a full application and approval process, including the development of a

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comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) which will involve a statutory public consultation period.

However, Petuna has started its own program of community engagement before submitting its EIS to understand any views, expectations or concerns people might have about the proposed change, to inform the development of the company’s submission.

The proposal does not incorporate any more nitrogen (production) or space (footprint) than was originally approved and will provide better outcomes for both farmed fish and the environment.

Petuna Managing Director, Rocky Boschman, said the lease was

approved four years ago, but the company was now proposing to divide it into two sites to ensure it met the requirements of the new Biosecurity Plan for the industry.

“Both proposed sites sit within areas that have been identified as having ‘very high suitability’ for finfish farming, as determined by the IMAS Statewide Finfish Aquaculture Spatial Planning program 2021,” Mr Boschman said.

“The proposed smolt site is considered high energy and is exposed to storm events and oceanic swells unbroken by land.

nearest resident with no direct line of sight.

“The proposed grow-out lease is 6.1km from the nearest shoreline, located 6.4km south of Betsey Island, providing substantial geographic distance from sensitive land-based sites, ensuring negligible visual and noise impacts.”

Mr Boschman said Petuna understood Tasmanians wanted to know how salmon companies were using and looking after the marine environment in and around their operations.

respect, recognition of mutual benefits and continuing open and transparent engagement.

“It is critical that the community’s input informs the development of our proposal, and this program of community engagement is separate to the formal engagement we will be required to undertake as part of our statutory obligations during the EIS process.”

More information about Petuna’s Storm Bay proposal can be found by visiting the links below.

“At the heart of Petuna’s consultative process is a commitment to bestpractice community engagement.

nister Jo Palmer and Premier Jeremy Rockliff pany’s GM Technical and Strategy, Depha Miedecke, .

“While it is 1.6km from the nearest shoreline, along a remote section of coastline, it is more than 4km from the

This means going above and beyond what is necessary to meet our statutory obligations,” he said.

“Fundamental to this is the development of relationships with community members based on mutual trust and

petuna.com.au/what-westand-for/sustainablegrowth/future-explorationexpansion/south-east

Petuna’s dashboard can be found at:

dashboard.petuna.com.au.

Members of the industry community are encouraged to email community@ petuna.com for more information, to ask questions or to arrange a site tour.

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World-first Robotic Technology

Huon Aquaculture has joined forces with local tech business, Southern Ocean Subsea (SOSub), to launch a groundbreaking underwater robotic stitching tool that is set to revolutionise the aquaculture industry worldwide.

time consuming disruptions in operations. However, the advent of underwater robotic stitching eliminates the need for net removal, enabling the repairs to be conducted in situ and freeing up the divers to work elsewhere.”

Developed by SOSub and tested extensively on Huon’s marine farms, this world-first technology employs stateof-the-art remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROV) to repair fish farming nets.

This ROV net repairer has an international patent. The innovative stitching tool enables accurate and efficient repairs to be carried out while the nets remain underwater.

“Underwater robotic stitching offers numerous advantages for the aquaculture industry.

The precise and durable repairs, made by the robotic technology, also enhances the longevity of the nets promoting sustainable aquaculture practices.”

Huon Aquaculture’s Subsea Development Manager, Dr Shea Cameron, has been involved in extensive trials of the new technology and sees it as a gamechanger for the aquaculture industry.

“For the aquaculture industry the holy grail is net repair.

Traditional net repairs often necessitate bringing the nets to the surface or deploying a dive team to fix, leading to

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“We recognise that it might not be able to replace a diver on all net repairs, but it can reduce the number of holes that need a diver’s attention.”

Equipped with SOSub’s cutting edge ROV’s, the remotely operated underwater vehicles are piloted by land-based operators who utilise cameras to identify breakages in the nets and conduct repairs. The ROVs can travel faster than divers and operate at depths

well beyond human limitations, reaching depths of up to 300 metres. They are also designed to thrive in murkier conditions and stronger currents, ensuring optimal performance even in challenging environments.

SOSub co-founder, Kelsey Treloar, says the innovative technology represents a significant step forward for the aquaculture industry.

“The capability of the ROV’s to work in deeper waters and in harsher conditions will support the growth of the aquaculture industry. As the underwater robotic stitching technology continues to evolve, ongoing efforts are being made to optimise stitching techniques and enhance the efficiency of the ROV’s.”

Huon Aquaculture and SOSub believe that this groundbreaking technology will revolutionise net repair practices in the aquaculture industry, driving operational efficiency and promoting the long-term viability of sustainable aquaculture practices.

Glamorgan - Spring Bay Council tour Tassal sites Salmon Tasmania had a great day on the east coast recently with representatives from Glamorgan Spring Bay Council who were keen to learn more about the industry and Tassal’s operations in the area.

After a trip out on the water to inspect the leases, we headed to the Tassal rendering factory just north of Triabunna.

The factory takes the leftovers from salmon processing and

turns it into valuable fish oil and fish meal that is used to make pet food.

Thanks to Tassal for inviting us along on what was a fun and informative informative day.

Responsible Seafood Summit

Salmon Tasmania CEO Luke Martin recently attended the Global Seafood Alliance’s 2023 Responsible Seafood Summit in Canada.

industry’s experience with Macquarie Harbour, and the details of the $6-milllon oxygenation project to help secure the Maugean Skate.

Luke had the opportunity to share with delegates the

Luke also relayed the perspective of the West Coast

salmon workers and community, playing the Voices of Macquarie Harbour video, showcasing the beauty of the Harbour, and the passion and commitment of the industry workers and community members.

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Huon to invest $20 million in new Rendering facility

Huon Aquaculture will invest $20 million to construct a state-of-the-art rendering facility at its Maiden Meadows property, adjacent to the Lonnavale hatchery.

It will process salmon by-products to produce high-quality fish meal and salmon oil. It will be able to process over 10,000 tons of material every year, creating 10 new full-time jobs.

During construction, it’s estimated to create up to 80 additional full time jobs.

The new facility will enable Huon to use cutting edge technology and continue to lead the way in circular From here, the next step is to economy and waste man- prepare a Environmental Impact Statement and then work agement practices.

towards finalising the overall design of the Rendering Facility.

Congratulations Congratulations to the crews at Tassal on these newly accredited members of their teams.

Alex Fairbrother and Thomas Davis recently completed their Certificate III in Aquaculture (left).

Nick Bonney, Nathan Pearson and Sam Badcock graduated from the Accelerate Program (right).

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The EPA and Huon Valley Council recently visited the Lonnavale site and Whale Point.

Huon has submitted an NOI (Notice of Intent), which will be released to the public at the end of August.

Tassal takes out Sustainability and Green Economy Award Thanks to Senior Manager International Salmon, Brian Keenan, for accepting on behalf of Team Tassal.

The Tasmanian Export Awards celebrate the achievements of our international exporting community.

What is produced in Tasmania is unique and of exceptional quality, and it’s for these reasons Tasmanian-made goods and services are highly sought after across the globe.

The Team at Tassal is proud to be successful in winning the Sustainability and Green Economy Award at the Tasmanian Export Awards recently held in Launceston.

These annual awards are an opportunity to recognise the significant contributions of Tasmanian exporters, and to celebrate their successes.

National winners across 13 award categories will be announced at the Australian Export Awards ceremony at Parliament House on Thursday, 30 November, to be hosted by Senator the Hon. Don Farrell, Minister for Trade and Tourism.

Sharing knowledge across the globe David Turner from Skretting Australia, recently had the opportunity to experience the value of international knowledge sharing firsthand.

Back in June, Dave set sail for Norway, the home of Skretting’s global office.

Over nine days, Dave and eight colleagues from across the world, took part in a process engineering training course led by members of the Skretting Global Operations Team, who are some of the most experienced and knowledgeable professionals in their fields.

great outcomes in the way some of the production equipment is used.

“There is so much to take away from a very short trip. But it’s really inspiring to see what is possible, and I can’t wait to put my learnings into practice here in Westbury”, said David.

This really cements the value of a global network, where decades of knowledge and experience can be injected into the heart of Tasmania, driving positive outcomes for the rest of the aquaculture industry.

Upon his return to Tasmania, Dave has shared his learnings from the global network with the local team, leading to some

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Feeding Barra a success from Hobart to Cone Bay!

Tassal’s Hobart Feed Centre team was thrilled to successfully feed Barramundi in Cone Bay WA from Hobart for the first time in September, after acquiring Australia’s only ocean-grown Barramundi Farm in June.

As you can see from his smiling face, Manager – Fish Performance and Remote Operations, Luke Cordwell,

was very happy with the achievement which he said was a massive team effort.

“The camera and feed system is being controlled 3,680km away via Starlink satellites and is another Tassal concept becoming reality as we continue to evolve and innovate,” he said.

“Having the ability to feed from our world-leading remote

operations centre in Hobart will allow us to sustainably drive growth and reduce the feed conversion ratio for Barramundi.”

Barramundi is now available at The Salmon Shop Salamanca!

This is another exciting milestone to celebrate for the team at Tassal.

Young anglers try to The Tasmanian Trout Expo and National Gone Fishing Junior Angling Day was held at Brumbys Creek, Cressy on October 8, attracting families from across the state.

Petuna donated 250 Rainbow Trout weighing 600g, and 40 weighing a whopping five kilos.

Twenty of the smaller trout were tagged for cash prizes of $50 each.

The free annual event aims to encourage families to take their kids fishing, in a family-friendly environment that includes a sausage sizzle and giveaways.

Photos: Petuna’s Michelle De Lange releasing Rainbow Trout into Brumbys Creek in preparation for the event, with Chris Bassano from Tasmania’s Inland Fisheries Service.

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New Technology for Pen Command Boxes A new version of the pen command box, called DVP (Distributed Video Project) was deployed last month in Huon’s Yellow Bluff lease, off Bruny Island.

The DVP box assists the ‘On Water Maintenance’ team and the control room operators to feed and monitor fish in the pens.

The new DVP box was entirely developed and built at Huon Aquaculture, including its programming software and hardware integration.

This is the third version of the box and brings new and innovative features, including easy maintenance, easy access to the components, compatibility with the new generation of spyballs, backwards compatibility with the old generation of spyballs, and enhanced compatibility with different communication radios.

easily adapted to control new hardware in the future.

Another advantage of the new box is the embedded, costeffective PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), which can be

A big thank you to Control Systems Engineers Miles Mazengarb and Leandro Disiuta, Fish Performance

Manager Madeleine McBride, trade assistants Anton Ostberg and Stuart Holiday, and Project Manager Tori Percival for their hard work on this project.

catch a Petuna winner

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Salmon donations

Kingborough & Huon Charities Huon Aquaculture, with help from local charity groups, launched a new community support initiative on September 21. The program will regularly donate salmon to provide essential protein products to families facing financial challenges in the Kingborough area.

Charities accepting Huon’s contributions include the Kingston Neighbourhood House, Kingborough Helping Hands, the Salvation Army Doorways Program in Blackmans Bay, and the Kingborough Family Church in Huntingfield.

Each of these organisations will receive between 20-30 kilograms of Huon’s premium salmon products.

Edna Pennicott from Kingborough Helping Hands spoke about the increasing number of people seeking food assistance in recent months.

“Our demand has more than doubled in the last three to four months,” Edna said.

“We now take out approximately 70 meals a night when we go out.

“We also make meal deliveries to elderly people who are living on their own and people who

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are sick and struggling.”

Edna thanked Huon Aquaculture for their support. “The salmon donations are just wonderful,” Edna said. “We will be able to use them to make meals, which will be a real treat for some people.

“We couldn’t do what we do without the donations we receive.”

Last week’s trial run saw Huon donate more than 220 kilograms of salmon products to 10 local charity organisations in both the Kingborough and Huon regions.

The new program represents a meaningful step toward addressing food insecurity and supporting those most affected by the cost-of-living crisis.

“We understand that the costof-living crisis is making it difficult for many families to afford protein products right now,” Huon Aquaculture’s Community Engagement Coordinator Sammy Kluga said.

“We hope our salmon donations will assist some of those families who are facing tough times in Kingborough at the moment.”

Department of Natural Resources & Environment Salmon Immersion Day

In September, the teams from Salmon Tasmania, Tassal, and Huon Aquaculture assisted the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania to hold an informative “Salmon Immersion Day”.

The day was designed to give staff across multiple departments first hand experience of salmon farming operations, with a visit to Whale Point Nursery, Tinderbox and Storm Bay leases as well as a feed centre.

It was a fantastic day with our teams answering questions and taking participants through the workings of our farms, many of whom had never been out to a farm before.

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JackJumpers & Huon launch into schools Hannah Gray, Huon Aquaculture’s General Manager Stakeholder & Government Relations, sees a natural synergy in the partnership, stating, “Huon and the JackJumpers share a common commitment, with community at the heart of our brands”.

“Huon has always been active in the communities in which we operate, and this partnership is a fantastic opportunity to having a lasting positive impact on the lives of young Tasmanians.”

The Tasmania JackJumpers will be out to school the competition this NBL season, but the club is also aiming to impact local school students with a new education program, supported by Huon Aquaculture.

The JackJumpers have announced a two-year community partnership with Huon Aquaculture, who will be the presenting partner of the JackJumpers in Schools Program delivering educational outcomes across Tasmania.

“We are delighted to partner with Huon Aquaculture to further increase our community program and reach more Tasmanians of all ages,” CEO Christine Finnegan said.

“We feel this program can have a really positive impact in classrooms across Tasmania, spreading the club’s values and helping to promote healthy, active and mindful growth through their adolescent years.”

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The JackJumpers in Schools Program aims to engage students through carefully designed lesson plans using JackJumpers basketball, humour, and interactive games to support their learning.

The initiative will be trialled as a pilot program at select schools in Term 4 to allow feedback from teachers and educators, before an anticipated full launch in Term 1, 2024.

Tassal’s community commitment in Tasman

The team at Tassal recently signed an Emergency MOU agreement with their neighbours at the Tasman Council, officially declaring their assistance if the community is in need in the future.

Tassal Northern Zone Operations Senior Manager Zack Wingfield said he and the crew were committed to looking after their people and our communities and this was just the ink on the paper to confirm it.

“We value the relationships we have with the surrounding communities where we live and operate, and the fact that the Tasman Council and Tassal are collaborating for the benefit of the community is teamwork at its best.”

“We spend more time on the water than most and are often first responders on the sea, involved in many marine

rescues throughout the year. At the end of the day we just want to see everyone go home safe.

“It’s a settling feeling knowing that we work in an industry that has the ability to offer assistance to people that find themselves in the most unexpected circumstances, particularly in remote locations.”

Tasman Council Mayor, Cr Rod Macdonald, is also Chair of the Municipal Emergency Management Committee, and recently signed the agreement on behalf of Council during a visit to the team in Nubeena.

“Council is very pleased to have entered into an agreement with Tassal to offer assistance to the Tasman community in the case of a declared emergency.

“This will provide a considerable boost to the resources that might be available in the event of a declared emergency in our municipality,” Cr Macdonald said.

Tassal ESG and Communities Manager Gemma Gwilliams said the team took its role as a steward of the environment seriously and supported initiatives that achieve the same.

“This commitment with the team at Tasman Council to be involved in emergency response was an easy decision for us. We have a long history of supporting local community organisations and social enterprises. Our participation in strategic partnerships and initiatives, as well as community funding streams and in-kind support, is aligned to our company values and what truly matters to our people and our communities.”

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our people

Tara Phillips

Compliance Coordinator - Rookwood Hatchery Tassal/Cooke - 7.5 years Role and what I like most about it:

I did over five Huonville before for my current

The diversity and inclusion is a driving factor for me.

Last year I was proud to successfully complete my Cert IV in Work Health and Safety alongside some of my amazing colleagues in other departments.

What I love most about my role is the fact I get to work alongside the most amazing team.

I love my role and knowing that each day we are sending our people home safely. I enjoy the challenges that come my way.

No one day is ever the same. I also love engaging with staff to drive continuous improvement for our site and business and for production and morale.

Career history:

I started my working in apple before starting a

career sheds family.

When I decided to return to work I started my time at Tassal at Huonville Processing in the slicing area.

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years at applying position.

Hobbies:

I recently went back to playing netball after many years away from the sport.

I also love spending time with my family at the beach and kayaking is always a summer time favourite.

Favourite band:

AC/DC is an all time fave band of mine and Luke Combs and Pink are also on my daily playlist.

Favourite movie:

The Heat or any movie with Sandra Bullock or Melissa McCarthy.

Tyrone

Operations Petuna/Sealord

Role and what I like most about it: My role is Operations manager for the past 9 years.

I really enjoy the day to day challenges of the role, working with my crew on a daily basis and the innovation of the industry.

Working on the water is the best office you can have. My childhood was always spent out on the water fishing, sailing, or enjoying water sports from five years of age.

The industry really does support the west coast of Tasmania, especially the local Strahan community, with employment and other local stakeholders.

Becker Manager 13 years

Career history:

I started in the aquaculture industry when I was 16.

I also spent four years in gold mining at Henty Gold Mine on the west coast of Tasmania and I then returned to aquaculture in late 2015.

Hobbies:

Stuart Grey

Customer Service Representative Huon Aquaculture/JBS - 9 years Role and what I like most about it: I enjoy talking to customers. We were recently sent to Sydney to meet the people we sell to, and it was very enjoyable to put faces to the names of the people we deal with on a daily basis.

Pearl Jam.

I also find the people within Huon very diverse and interesting, and I like having conversations with people with a depth of knowledge and experience.

Favourite movie:

Career history:

Fishing, camping & enjoying life with my family.

Favourite band:

Billy Madison.

I have a varied career history from a trade background in printing, to managing a bar and being wine convenor for a university.

Hobbies:

I have been a karate instructor for over 30 years, but I don’t really call that a hobby.

Probably the thing that consumes me is fishing. I love it. I will talk, think, read about, and watch hours of YouTube videos on the subject as well as try and catch a fish about three times a week.

Favourite band:

It depends but driving home from work is usually Tool or Rage Against the Machine and The Cure.

Favourite movie:

The Seven Samurai.

I was a teacher for many years and my last job was running a real estate photography business which led me to professional speaking and coaching.

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our Recipes GLAZED SALMON WITH BOK CHOY AND RICE Cooks in 25 mins Easy Serves 2

INGREDIENTS: 300g ( 2 portions ) Tassie Salmon, skin off ¼ cup light soy sauce ¼ cup mirin

1 tsp sesame oil

1 bunch bok choy, halved, steamed, to serve Cooked rice, to serve

Sesame seeds to garnish

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METHOD: STEP 1 Preheat oven to 200°C oven fan grill. Place oven rack on top shelf of oven.

STEP 2 Place salmon in a shallow bowl, add soy and mirin and allow the fish to marinate.

STEP 3 Remove salmon from bowl and place on oven tray lined with foil or baking paper. Place on top shelf of oven and cook for 5 minutes, then turn fish over and cook on the other side for a few minutes until the salmon is cooked through.

STEP 4 Serve with steamed bok choy and rice, drizzle over sesame oil and garnish with sesame seeds.

ONE TRAY SALMON BAKE

Cooks in 25 mins Easy Serves 2

INGREDIENTS: 500g (4 portions ) Tassie Salmon, skin on 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 2 eschalots, finely diced 1 lemon, sliced

2 Tbsp salted capers, rinsed

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to season Dill sprigs to garnish

Steamed beans and asparagus, to serve

METHOD STEP 1 Preheat oven to 200°C fan forced.

STEP 2 Place salmon on a baking tray lined with foil or baking paper. Season with salt and pepper and add a slice of lemon to each piece of salmon.

STEP 3 In a small bowl, mix oil, eschalots and capers. Spoon over the salmon.

STEP 4 Bake in oven for 10 minutes until the salmon is cooked through.

STEP 5 Serve with steamed beans and asparagus and garnish with fresh dill.

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83 Salamanca Place, Battery Point, Tas. 7005 admin@salmontas.au salmontasmania.au

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