Welcome from Salmon Tasmania
It has been a busy few months for Salmon Tasmania, catching up with industry friends and colleagues at events across all corners of the state.
From Strahan to Nubeena, Triabunna and throughout the Huon, it has been a timely reminder of just how deeply engrained the salmon aquaculture industry is within so many Tasmanian communities.
The full social impact of the industry is something we’re seeking to better understand with the assistance of leading Tasmanian social researcher, Kym Goodes. Social impact goes much deeper than just employment numbers, or how much sponsorship dollars our companies contribute. It is about looking into the impact of the thousands of hours volunteered by our workers each year that benefits the whole community, and the marine rescues and emergency
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services that our companies undertake on a regular basis. Understanding and quantifying this enables us to consider ways to further support our people to make an even bigger contribution to communities.
This edition of SMOLT presents just a snapshot of some of the many positive things our salmon companies and their workers are doing in communities across the state.
Luke Martin, CEO.
Luke Martin Chief Executive Officer
Matt Barrenger Technical Director
Stuart Harris Communications Director
Jess Hyland Environmental Specialist
Lyall Howard Chair
Cover photo: Strahan Seals Football Team Credit: Sammie Saltmarsh Photography
Peter & Una Rockliff our heritage
In 1950, Peter and Una Rockliff came together in an inseparable personal and business partnership that was to take them to the pinnacle of the sea fishing industry in Tasmania and later, in the early 1990s, the Tasmanian aquaculture industry.
In keeping with their remarkable partnership, they bonded their first names – Peter and Una –to name their fledgling fishing enterprise Petuna.
Today, the name is synonymous with premium quality ocean trout and Atlantic salmon as well as high-value wild catch.
For the first 40 years of their partnership, Peter caught and delivered a diversity of ocean species from barracuda to lobster for Una to market and sell. In the 1980s the Rockliffs pioneered the deepwater orange roughy fishery off Tasmania’s west coast and successfully marketed the previously unknown species as a premium seafood product.
Their entry into the Tasmanian aquaculture industry began in 1991, when Peter and Una acquired a 50 per cent stake in Sevrup Fisheries as well as total ownership of West Coast Salmon, providing them with farm leases and shore-based operations in Macquarie Harbour.
The acquisition provided Petuna with a vertically integrated business, encompassing a hatchery – licensed to grow both ocean trout and Atlantic salmon – a well-located shorebased wharf facility on the
harbour, and their already established fish processing and marketing operations. This ensured the seamless integration of salmonids into their existing seafood value chain, right through to the point of sale.
It was Petuna that pioneered the sustainable, commercial production of ocean trout in Tasmania
with the incomparable endorsement of internationally-renowned Japanese chef, Tetsuya Wakuda. As a result, Petuna ocean trout realised a premium price in excess of that of Atlantic salmon and won recognition as a premium brand for the species.
It became a feature dish in Australian fine dining restaurants and subsequently featured on Qantas first-class/business class menus on both domestic and international flights. As a brand, Petuna ocean trout is now synonymous with the nation’s finest food products.
From 1991 to today, Petuna continues to be the leading producer of ocean trout in Australia.
Tetsuya was subsequently appointed Brand Ambassador for Tasmania on the recommendation of the Rockliffs.
At the start of their involvement in Macquarie Harbour, Peter and Una recognised the potential of the vast harbour waterway as an ideal catchment for the farming of Atlantic salmon. Because of its low salinity, Atlantic salmon could be grown free of amoebic gill disease (AGD) to which the species is particularly vulnerable. Once they had established
ocean trout production on a commercially sustainable basis, Peter and Una set about pioneering the production of Atlantic salmon in the deep waters of the harbour, which continues to be a significant producer of AGD-free Atlantic salmon and remains the key production catchment for ocean trout.
It is a matter of history that the development by the Rockliffs of Macquarie Harbour as a site for aquaculture production has been a major contributor to the success of the salmon industry in Tasmania. While Petuna was the first company to successfully commercialise and develop a unique brand for ocean trout, it was also the first producer of Atlantic salmon grown in the harbour.
When they first set up the business, Peter and Una shared the mutual vision that Tasmania could win worldwide recognition for the quality and environmental excellence of its seafood industry.
Over the years, they have been central players in seeing that vision realised.
In 2004, both Peter and Una were awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in recognition of their contribution to the pioneering efforts in the development of Australia’s wild fisheries and the aquaculture industry.
In 2017, they received the highest industry honour — the Industry Ambassador Award — at the Australian Seafood Industry Awards, with both Peter and Una inducted into the Australian Seafood Hall of Fame.
In 2010, New Zealand-based Sealord invested in the business, through a 50 per cent partnership with the Rockliff family.
A decade later, in 2020, Peter and Una sold their remaining 50 per cent shareholding to the Sealord Group. However, they retain full ownership of their wild fisheries operation, including a continuing processing, wholesale and retail outlet for Australian Seafood which began more than 70 years ago.
Ales Salmon Tails & Launceston
Salmon Tasmania hosts a program of monthly networking events, Ales & Salmon Tails. These are free, casual get togethers 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.
Triabunna
Hosting His ExcellencY Xiao Qian new Labor team visits Strahan
Salmon Tasmania was honoured to host His Excellency Xiao Qian, Ambassador to Australia for the People’s Republic of China, as part of his short visit to Tasmania in October.
Ambassador Xiao and his guests toured Tassal’s seafood processing centre in Huonville and its remote feed room in Hobart.
The Ambassador said he was personally a big fan of Tasmanian salmon, and wanted to see where it came from. He confirmed it was frequently in the kitchen and on the menu at the Chinese Embassy in Canberra!
China is Tasmania’s largest export market for salmon products.
Nick Duigan MLC visits Tassal Feed Centre
Thank you Nick Duigan MLC for taking the time to visit the Tassal Remote Feed Centre in Hobart.
As an industry led by science, it was great to show him the amazing technology used in our operations.
Fantastic to host Senator Katy Gallagher in beautiful Strahan to tour the Aquaculture Hub and meet our teams in Macquarie Harbour.
Katy is Federal Minister for Finance and a very senior Minister in the Albanese Government, so we appreciate her effort and time in visiting the West Coast and seeing our industry first hand.
It’s fair to say our workers respectfully put some very direct questions to the Senator, and we all valued her openness and candour in speaking with us.
Rebecca White MP tours Triabunna farms
A fantastic day with Rebecca White MP to tour Tassal’s Triabunna farm and rendering plant.
Rebecca has been a long time salmon supporter and often takes the time to meet the workers and continually learn about the industry.
Thank you for spending the day with us Bec.
RESEARCHERS AREN’T LOOKING WHERE the SKATE WAS FIRST RECORDED, SO HOW CAN WE BE SURE OF RESULTS?
Luke Martin, CEO, Salmon Tasmania
The jobs of people in the salmon aquaculture industry depend on rigorous scientific research.
Luke Martin
The Mercury Newspaper 21 October 2024
It might surprise many Tasmanians to learn that the Maugean skate was originally known as the Port Davey skate and was first found in the far southwest at Bathurst Harbour, where it is now considered to have disappeared.
Given this, it might also surprise many to learn that the current federal government research into the skate is not examining Bathurst Harbour at all.
In fact, the research into exactly how many skates might be in the wild has focused on only three areas of Macquarie Harbour on the state’s West Coast, and predominantly at depths no
greater than 10m. What’s more, the population sampling that has been undertaken began with setting overnight nets, but soon changed to only set nets in the daytime for a maximum of just two hours at a time.
You do not need to be a marine scientist to appreciate this is a very short and narrow examination of a very small patch of a harbour that is six times the size of Sydney Harbour.
This is just one of the many concerns the salmon industry has now formally raised with the Australian government’s Threatened Species Scientific Committee (TSSC) as it considers the conservation status of the Maugean skate.
The Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek has
indicated she will strongly consider the committee’s advice in her own review of our industry’s approval to farm in Macquarie Harbour.
The Minister’s decision could have devastating impacts on the lives of hundreds of workers, their families and the West Coast. It must be based on robust science.
It is our view the scientific data the TSSC is using to frame its ministerial advice falls well short of even its own assessment threshold.
The Tasmanian salmon industry has never shied away from the evidence of a decline in the Maugean skate population, in fact much of the research into the species has been initiated or funded by our industry.
But decisions must be informed by robust scientific data, and when you assess the research,
we believe there is insufficient scientific evidence available to support changing the skate’s conservation status.
In fact, all the recent evidence suggests that the situation for the skate is improving.
Additionally, there are severe information gaps in what data is available, and the science that has been presented could be improved.
Our submission clearly shows the population data is not robust, and there is no evidence that shutting down our industry will save the skate.
It includes the following key considerations:
There has been very limited research within Bathurst Harbour, where the skate was first found and is now apparently extinct despite no industrial presence of any kind.
There has also been a failure to identify and examine all major threats to the skate, with evidence about Hydro and heavy metals not released by the TSSC, thus not independently verified or subject to scientific peer review.
A key report by University of Tasmania Professor Barry
Brook*, a specialist in population viability analysis with 30 years’ experience, has found the information used by TSSC about the skate’s population had “severe information gaps” and a “bigger problem” which “is that the outcome is essentially forced.”
A further report by leading marine engineer Dr Ian Wallis* has found that the drawdown of oxygen attributable to salmon farming occurs in a manner that could result in negligible impact to the skate. It also highlights that the cessation of aquaculture in Macquarie Harbour alone without addressing other factors including Hydro, heavy metals and climate, would be unlikely to resolve current low levels of dissolved oxygen in the water system.
The most recent environmental monitoring data released by the independent Tasmanian Environment Protection Authority (EPA) demonstrates conditions within the harbour are the best in a decade, and last month the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) released data showing the skate population has stabilised with no further declines and show positive signs for recruitment.
Minister Plibersek’s committee
will ultimately make up its own mind, but we expect its advice to be based on the best available science and contemporary evidence.
Like many, our industry shares a genuine concern about Macquarie Harbour and the Maugean skate.
This industry relies on a healthy harbour, and that’s why it invests in world-leading science to keep it that way.
But, it is important to acknowledge that the harbour is a complex environment and the risks to the skate are many –including climate change, gillnet fishing, Hydro flows, invasive species, and mining sediment.
Salmon aquaculture is one industry that operates in Macquarie Harbour, but correlation does not equal causation when it comes to the future of the Maugean skate. And the fact that the skate has disappeared from Bathurst Harbour where there is no aquaculture at all is case in point.
There are absolutely no guarantees that taking the easy route and blaming the salmon industry will help to save the skate.
But what is 100 per cent certain is reducing aquaculture in Macquarie Harbour will cost jobs and devastate communities.
*Editor’s note: Professor Barry Brook and Dr Ian Wallis were commissioned by Salmon Tasmania to review current projections of the Maugean skate’s population decline.
Petuna Team leads successful
whale rescue in Macquarie Harbour
A big shout-out to the dedicated Petuna team in Strahan for their outstanding work in safeguarding local wildlife!
When news came in about a potential whale stranding in Macquarie Harbour — something we’ve unfortunately seen before — Petuna Operations Manager, Wayne McDermott, immediately stepped up to take action.
Wayne quickly mobilised a Petuna vessel, the “Sapphire Star,” and led the effort to guide a pod of approximately 25 pilot whales back out through the narrow and challenging passage of Hells Gate.
Navigating tricky shallows and overcoming close calls, Wayne and the team worked tirelessly to ensure the whales’ safe passage. Support from World Heritage Cruises and the Parks and Wildlife team was invaluable, as they assisted in keeping the pod on course until they were safely back in open waters.
Reflecting on the mission, Wayne said, “well, that was a stressful four hours stuck between a rock and a hard whale”.
“But, knowing we helped these incredible animals make it back to the sea is always worth the effort.”
“It’s not just whales we quite often save; it’s also people. We care more for Macquarie Harbour than anyone, as it’s where our kids fish and swim.”
This isn’t the first time the salmon companies have stepped in during a stranding. The last major incident in Strahan occurred in 2022, involving around 230 whales.
Back then, all three salmon companies in the area came together with the community to save as many whales as possible, demonstrating the shared commitment to protecting our environment and its wildlife.
Strahan Site Manager Neil Gillies praised the team’s efforts.
“From the moment the call came in, the team showed their dedication and skill, with Wayne leading the charge” he said.
“Their commitment to our waters and local wildlife is something we can all be proud of.”
A heartfelt thank you to the Petuna team: Wayne McDermott, Brayden Triffett, Leighton Koontz, and Jhi Triffett.
Your dedication and teamwork made all the difference in guiding these whales to safety, showing the true spirit of Petuna and its commitment to making a positive impact in Macquarie Harbour.
On November 3 the Tasmanian salmon industry celebrated as more than 700 people attended a family day in Huonville.
Salmon Tasmania CEO Luke Martin welcomed salmon workers, suppliers, community and government representatives to the Huonville PCYC.
During the event, Salmon Tasmania took the opportunity to thank
Minister Eric Abetz and Shadow Minister Janie Finlay MP, who both received a “Salmon Champions” vest in recognition of their support.
The free community celebration, hosted by Salmon Tasmania, featured free rides, food and entertainment to families in the area with a connection to the salmon industry.
Aquatas arrives
Tassal’s latest wellboat arrives in Tassie with a continued focus on fish welfare.
Tassal’s second wellboat – AquaTas – has recently arrived in Tasmania after a long journey from Europe.
The vessel will play a major role in farming salmon in Tasmania’s waters, but will also be home to a crew of 10 people at any one time, covering tasks that include navigation, maintenance, fish husbandry, engineering and technology.
AquaTas will ensure a continued focus on high standard fish health and welfare while reducing freshwater usage.
Tassal General Manager Salmon Tim Stephens said it was exciting to welcome another boat to improve efficiency in Tassal’s salmon operations and align with Tassal’s fish welfare commitments.
“The wellboat represents best-practice for fish welfare and stock management and is a positive when it comes to biosecurity,” he said.
“By improving health outcomes overall, it offers a significant advancement over conventional bathing and transportation methods for salmon.
“All operations are designed with sustainability in mind.
“By reducing vessel activity in sensitive areas, and significantly lowering freshwater demands, we minimise our environmental footprint.
“Through innovative bathing methods, we will cut our water usage by one-third, reducing reliance on local water supplies.”
Mr Stephens said the team was proud to continue its commitment to safety which was the number one priority.
“AquaTas enables operations to be undertaken in our high energy sites while also reducing our Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) risks,” he said.
Tassal Managing Director and CEO Mark Ryan alongside AquaTas
“This ensures a safer working environment for our crew and supports our ongoing commitment to safety and risk management.”
The AquaTas regular transit routes cover key locations in the Huon Valley, Kingborough, Tasman and Glamorgan Spring Bay regions. These routes have been strategically chosen to ensure efficient transportation and logistics, connecting operational sites while minimising any potential environmental impact.
The Tassal community engagement team has recently held informal pop-up sessions across the communities in which they operate to ensure transparency and give community members the opportunity to ask questions about AquaTas.
Tassal Corporate Affairs and Communities GM Tom Middleton said Tassal was committed to responsibly managing noise and
light emissions, while continuing to protect the local environment and communities.
“We are committed to helping the community understand Tassal’s operations and the technical aspects of finfish aquaculture,” he said.
“Through open communication, we aim to address concerns and engage with the community in a meaningful way. Transparency and responsiveness are key to building trust and fostering positive relationships with our stakeholders.
“We expect a reduction in overall operational boat traffic within the waterways.
“In areas where bathing activities may occur during the evening or night, we are implementing strategies to ensure these operations are conducted as quietly and unobtrusively as possible.”
Nets Tasmania
New multimillion dollar aquaculture development brings jobs to the Huon Valley
Nets Tasmania is developing a new net slab facility at Scotts Road, Cairns Bay, to support the business’ continued growth in aquaculture net repair and maintenance services.
The new site will include a 4,225 m2 net slab work area, a 1,600 m2 warehouse and production facility, and state-of-the-art
lifting and job management assets. The site will be one of the largest single purpose facilities in southern Tasmania and has the potential to employ up to 15 new, full-time staff.
The net slab development has been awarded to Duggans, a local civil and earthworks firm based in the Huon Valley. Site works are underway with the
The new net slab under construction at Cairns Bay
new net slab now complete and associated facilities due for completion in the first half of 2025.
Founder and Managing Director of Nets Tasmania, Don Latham, said “importantly, the development will result in significant social and economic benefits for the Huon Valley region including longterm employment, skills development, and continued local support for the Tasmanian aquaculture sector.
“Nets Tasmania currently employs over 20 staff members both on land and water across multiple sites in southern Tasmania.
In the coming years, we plan to recruit additional employees to be trained in specialised
net making, repair, and maintenance services,” Mr Latham said.
Mr Latham said the development would ensure Nets Tasmania remained at the forefront of the Australian aquaculture industry, providing an opportunity to keep skills and supply chain value-added services in Tasmania, and allowing the business to successfully compete with cheaper imports from other international markets on the basis of service, product quality, and accessibility.
“The new net slab will allow us to continue to provide specialised and local net design, R&D, custom manufacture, on-site installation, and on and off-site maintenance and repair services to our key customers.
“Our focus is on ensuring that our customers achieve excellent farm performance and efficiency as a result of advancements in our net design and quality.”
Nets Tasmania Managing Director, Don Latham with The Minister Eric Abetz
Whale Point Expansion
Huon has announced it will invest $110 million to build a new Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) at its Whale Point site in Port Huon.
The Whale Point expansion will allow Huon to continue growing fish longer on land, which means fish that go to sea will be larger and spend less time in the marine environment.
This project highlights Huon’s continuous innovation; pioneering technology and practices which cement the company as a global leader in aquaculture.
The project is a significant investment in regional Tasmania, generating around 150 jobs during construction and 8 permanent jobs at Huon once the facility is operational.
Huon plans to start building the new facility in early 2025, pending approvals, and aims to be fully operational by 2027.
Huon led the use of RAS facilities in Tasmania, with the opening of its first nursery at Whale Point in 2019.
This exciting project was launched at an event at Whale Point, with CEO Henry Batista, Minister Eric Abetz, local businesses, stakeholders and media.
Huon CEO Henry Batista, Minister Eric Abetz & BC Electrical engineer Ryan Flint
It was a great opportunity to showcase Huon’s world-leading RAS facility and the plans to expand it.
Guests sampled some tasty BBQ salmon and toured Whale Point.
BC Electrical is among the local businesses set to work on the project and Automation Engineer Ryan Flint said the new RAS facility would generate ongoing work for his company.
“During the construction phase of this project, we’re predicting we will need to employ an additional 5-10 staff members,” he said.
“Beyond the construction phase, the new facility will create additional ongoing work for our business, particularly in maintenance work, once the new nursery is operational.
“Like many Huon Valley businesses, we see this $110 million dollar investment in the region as a massive boost to the local economy. This industry employs thousands of people in regional parts of Tasmania, from both the aquaculture sites themselves, and local
businesses such as transport and takeaways. It also keeps many families based in these regional locations, boosting schools and communities.”
Minister for Business, Industry and Resources, Eric Abetz welcomed Huon’s investment announcement.
“As part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future we are backing in industry to grow jobs and invest in projects around Tasmania,” he said.
“The expected benefits to the region from the construction and operational phases of this proposed worldleading hatchery would be far-reaching, boosting regional employment, bolstering business confidence and giving the community certainty into the future.”
Whale Point Site Plan
Stronger Building communities
Across regional Tasmania, a quiet transformation is taking place, driven by the dedication of the local salmon industry.
The industry has not only become an economic pillar for our regional towns but also a force for community wellbeing, education, sustainability, and social inclusion.
For years, Tasmania’s salmon industry has been committed to enhancing the quality of life in the regions it operates. By
supporting more than 5,000 jobs statewide and contributing $770 million to the Tasmanian economy, it brings stability and prosperity to rural communities.
However, the story goes beyond numbers; it’s about the salmon industry becoming a true community partner, enhancing the quality of life for residents across the island.
For families, the industry’s commitment to community wellbeing is clear. It has partnered with local schools to provide nutritious breakfasts, sponsors food banks, and donates produce worth hundreds of thousands of dollars annually, helping to combat food insecurity.
This focus on food security and nutrition also extends to community education programs, where the salmon industry collaborates with schools to promote healthier lifestyles.
In rural communities, the fabric of society is woven from the spirit of volunteering, and the salmon industry’s employees exemplify this spirit.
With volunteerism rates among its staff well above the state average, the industry supports countless hours of community service, sponsoring events and local programs.
From coaching youth sports to assisting in wildlife rescues, employees play an active role in enriching community life.
For instance, salmon industry employees participate in events like the Christmas Pageant and the National Gone Fishing Day, fostering community connections and creating cherished memories for families.
The industry’s support for these gatherings brings people together and helps nurture a sense of belonging and shared identity.
Investing in the next generation is a key priority for the Tasmanian salmon industry.
Through partnerships with schools, scholarships, and vocational training programs, it opens doors to career opportunities for young people across the state.
Industry-sponsored apprenticeships and internships enable local students to gain hands-on experience in aquaculture, environmental science, and logistics, equipping them with skills that can build long-term careers.
The industry also facilitates school tours, workshops, and partnerships with local educational institutions.
By engaging students in real-world aquaculture and marine biology, the salmon industry is actively encouraging the retention of young talent in regional areas, creating a sustainable pipeline of skilled individuals who are eager to stay and contribute to their communities.
With substantial investments in reducing carbon emissions, innovating waste management, and supporting local wildlife conservation, the industry is doing its part to protect Tasmania’s unique ecosystems. Recent initiatives include reducing the use of polystyrene,
employing recycling systems that minimise waste, and even supporting efforts to protect marine animals.
These commitments to sustainability aren’t just about minimising impact—they represent the industry’s dedication to being a responsible custodian of Tasmania’s natural resources.
By investing in cleaner technologies, they’re ensuring the environment Tasmanians cherish remains vibrant and healthy for generations to come.
When disaster strikes, the salmon industry is often one of the first to lend a hand. Through memorandums of understanding with local councils, the industry provides vessels, equipment, and manpower to assist in emergencies. Whether it’s bushfire season or natural disasters, these resources and expertise help ensure that com-
munities can respond swiftly and effectively.
Inclusivity lies at the heart of the salmon industry’s operations. It offers job opportunities to migrant workers, actively supporting their integration into Tasmanian society.
Programs to improve literacy, such as the 26TEN workshops, and English language classes enable people from diverse backgrounds to engage fully in their communities.
Through its sponsorship of intercultural sports leagues, the salmon industry promotes unity, physical health, and social engagement. These leagues bring together people from diverse backgrounds, celebrating Tasmania’s cultural mosaic
Tasmania’s salmon industry is the major sponsor of the Strahan Seals Football Club as well as many other initiatives including the Strahan Christmas Family Night and local health and wellbeing programs
and fostering friendships that bridge differing backgrounds.
A report recently released by 3P Advisory, “The Salmon Industry Community Benefit Framework,” highlights the potential for a Community Engagement and Benefit Charter to formalise and expand the salmon industry’s contributions.
By establishing measurable goals for economic development, education, environmen-
tal sustainability, and transparency, the industry can continue to enhance its positive impact on Tasmania’s rural and regional communities.
This proposed charter would ensure that the industry’s contributions are not only consistent but also aligned with the evolving needs of the communities it serves.
As the industry looks to the future, its commitment to com-
munity, sustainability, and resilience remains unwavering.
From supporting food security and education to enhancing environmental stewardship and fostering inclusivity, the industry stands as a model of how businesses can be true partners in building a thriving, resilient, and inclusive community.
The full report will be released in the coming months.
By establishing measurable goals for economic development, education, environmental sustainability and transparency, the industry can continue to enhance its positive impact on Tasmania’s rural and regional communities.
From supporting food security and education to enhancing environmental stewardship and fostering inclusivity, the industry stands as a model of how businesses can be true partners in building a thriving, resilient, and inclusive community.
Petuna Trout bringing the 2024 Tasmanian Trout Expo to life
The Hydro Tasmania/Cressy Community Trout Expo recently concluded another successful year.
The 22nd edition of the Expo, held on Sunday, 13 October, welcomed 600 anglers to Brumby’s Creek.
Richard Goss, the event’s organiser, praised the high-quality trout donation from Petuna, stating, “the fish were in excel-
lent condition, ensuring participants a great experience”.
Petuna’s support remains critical to the Expo’s success, helping us to provide a memorable event for the community.”
Petuna, a long-standing supporter of the Expo, contributed 400 rainbow trout for this year’s event.
Josh Flowers, a Petuna Hatchery Technician and member of the Australian Fly Fishing Team, shared his excitement, remarking, “It’s great to see the growing enthusiasm for trout fishing, and we’re proud to be part of this important community event”.
Rene Contreras, Petuna’s General Manager of Freshwater Operations, highlighted the significance of the company’s involvement.
“Supporting the Trout Expo allows Petuna to give back to the community and celebrate our shared passion for fishing and Tasmanian trout.”
The Expo offered something for everyone, with anglers of all ages trying their luck at
catching one of the 400 trout released into the waters, including 20 specially tagged fish offering cash prizes.
The family-friendly event also featured a free sausage sizzle, giveaways for children, and ample space for picnicking along the scenic 3km of river frontage.
The 2024 Expo once again succeeded in bringing together the Tasmanian fishing community, ensuring the tradition of recreational fishing continues for future generations.
Tassie’s NBL Champions
host basketball clinics in Tassie schools
Off the back of their historic Championship, players took some time out to pass their skills on to local kids.
The team has visited several local Tassie schools as part of the JackJumpers in Schools Program, delivered in partnership with Huon Aquaculture.
From Strahan to Launceston down to Dover, Huon has dished up hearty breakfasts and lunches to more than 4,600 Tassie kids.
Huon and the JackJumpers will visit more than 25 schools across Tasmania as part of the Schools Program, which includes an eight-week learning module with videos featuring JackJumpers players, to promote healthy, active and mindful growth for young people.
Amanda Jackson, from Dover Primary School, said the school has been involved in the JackJumpers in Schools Program for the past two years.
“The learning opportunities have focused on exercise, nutrition, resilience and diversity. Having the Jack Jumper players convey some of the learning topics has allowed the content to be relatable and has inspired our students to dream big!”
She said the school visit was a fantastic day for Dover students,
“As a school in the Far South, we have greatly valued being able to create connections with and beyond our immediate community.
“We are so grateful to the JackJumpers for coming down and a big thank you to Huon Aquaculture for providing our students with a healthy and delicious lunch.”
Huon’s Community Engagement Coordinator Sammy Kluga said it was great to be able to provide local school kids with a fun learning experience.
“Partnering with the JackJumpers allows kids to learn health and wellbeing life skills in a fun and engaging way.”
With the NBL season under way Huon will be at JackJumpers home games, giving away merch and salmon tastings with a year’s supply of salmon to be won plus spot prizes!
at National Seafood Awards Tassal Recognised
Tassal was thrilled to be the conference partner at the Seafood Directions event held in Hobart in September.
The theme was “Futures of Seafood” and included insights from leading industry experts, innovators and keynotes from visionaries.
This year marked 25 years of the event and the team at Tassal really made an impact.
Tassal ESG and Communities Partner and Nuffield Australia Scholar Jo Mendes presented on global insights and local actions surrounding advancing sustainable salmon aquaculture
Tassal Chief Operating Officer Hamish Sutton accepts the Large Business Award
in Tasmania, while Tassal Head of Environment Sean Riley joined a panel to talk about the role of policy, regulation and governance in sustainable fisheries.
The conference finished with the National Seafood Awards where Tassal won the Large Business Award and Tassal CEO and Managing Director Mark
Ryan was inducted into the National Seafood Industry Hall of Fame.
The National Seafood Industry Award winners are exceptional individuals and businesses that have set the standard in the seafood industry, showcasing excellence, dedication and innovation.
takes a coordinated approach to marine debris clean-ups in Macquarie Harbour Industry
The aquaculture industry in Macquarie Harbour is stepping up its environmental efforts, with a renewed focus on reducing marine debris and enhancing sustainability.
All three companies operating in the region have combined forces, aiming to strengthen the impact of clean-up programs while engaging more effectively with the local community.
“Macquarie Harbour is a vast and challenging environment,” said Daniel Costelloe, Environmental & Sustainability Manager at Petuna.
“Our efforts to manage marine debris have always been strong, and in 2024 and 2025, we are working more closely as an industry to ensure a more coordinated approach to marine debris cleanups and community engagement.
“By collaborating with the other aquaculture operators, we’re ensuring a strategic approach to debris clean-ups and compliance, and working on initiatives to steadily reduce the amount of aquaculturerelated debris collected.”
One of the key challenges for clean-up efforts in Macquarie Harbour is the sheer size of the area, with the total shoreline stretching for 205 kilometres.
With its expansive shoreline and isolated stretches, organising and executing effective marine debris collections is no small feat. However, the industry’s new approach seeks to overcome these challenges through strategic planning and community engagement.
As part of the industry’s more coordinated approach, the aquaculture companies operating in Macquarie Harbour have developed a comprehensive map of the region, designating specific zones for each company to be responsible for maintaining.
“This zoning system allows us to streamline our clean-up efforts, ensuring that no area is overlooked and that each company takes ownership of a particular section of the harbour,” said Dan.
“By clearly attributing responsibility, we can more effectively manage marine debris and ensure consistent, year-round clean-up activities.”
As part of this initiative, Petuna and its industry partners, Huon and Tassal, will continue to perform the annual Industry
Cleanup, which has become a key part of the company’s sustainability calendar. Increased community awareness of these efforts is also a priority for 2025, with the industry seeking to enhance its communication and engagement with the residents of Strahan and surrounding areas.
“We are also aligning our annual industry clean-up with the Community Strahan Cleanup, so we can amplify our impact and increase awareness of our efforts,” Dan said.
“We are committed to improving how we track and report the debris we collect, so the community has a clearer understanding of the positive steps we’re taking.”
“Our clean-up efforts go beyond just removing aquaculturerelated debris,” said Dan. “We also tackle household and other marine waste, ensuring the harbour is left cleaner than before.
It’s about taking a holistic approach to environmental stewardship, benefitting both the ecosystems and the communities in which we operate.
“The
more the community understands our efforts and sees the data, the more we can work together towards a shared goal of preserving Macquarie Harbour’s natural beauty and biodiversity”.
Dan emphasised the industry was dedicated to not only addressing current challenges but also proactively preventing debris from entering the harbour in the first place.
“Our ultimate goal is to significantly reduce the amount of debris entering the water
through company-specific initiatives. We’re committed to improving and refining our practices year after year,” he said.
“This includes better data management and transparency around the clean-up process, which is expected to not only improve industry practices but also bolster community trust.”
With these coordinated efforts, the industry in Macquarie Harbour is setting new standards for environmental responsibility and sustainability, proving that large-scale aquaculture and environmental stewardship can go together hand in hand.
Tassal help keep Geeveston Community Pantry Stocked
Demand for food relief is soaring, but one community organisation has received a big boost to its efforts.
The Geeveston Community Centre Pantry provides grocery staples for locals, and with the cost of living squeezing people’s finances, the need for help is surging.
GeCo Centre Manager Nicole Watt said over the past 12 months, demand for GeCo’s food-relief program increased by 190 per cent.
She recently put out a call for help to local MP and Tasmanian Labor leader, Dean Winter, who passed the message on to Tassal.
Tassal is now providing $7,500 across two years to help keep the GeCo pantry stocked up.
“This really gives us the certainty that we need to be able to budget for the future,” Ms Watt said.
“Demand for food relief has never been higher in our community. So many people are doing it really tough at the moment.”
She said food relief also helped people connect with other services and stay connected.
Tom Middleton, Tassal GM for Corporate Affairs and Communities, said the team at Tassal was happy to help out.
“Tassal has been operating in the Huon for more than 30 years and we are proud to be a part of this community,” he said.
“This is a really important service for people in the local area, particularly when a lot of people are doing it tough. Nicole and her team do an amazing job, and we’re delighted to be able to support them as part of our community program.”
Higher costs are hurting not just households but also community organisations, with GeCo recently forced into selling its community bus that was used for excursions and a range of services.
GeCo’s food-relief program distributes non-perishable groceries for people to cook at home, with a list of preferred staple items.
Anyone wanting to make donations can contact GeCo on 6297 1616 or online via geeveston.org.au.
Dean Winter MP, Nicole Watt, Trish Tinkler and Tom Middleton
Ollie takes top spot at TAS ICT Awards
Huon’s IT Support Officer
Ollie Reynolds has been named the ICT Industry Rising Star at the 2024 TasICT awards in July.
Huon’s IT team plays a pivotal role in connecting 18 of our sites across Australia. Their hard work ensures equipment, vessels and systems can all operate seamlessly.
The TasICT Excellence Awards recognise the sector’s best projects, programs, products and people.
Ollie is a mainstay of Huon’s IT team and is highly valued by colleagues right across the company. He is hardworking and always willing to help when approached.
He’s developed a broad knowledge of Huon’s complex operations and of the IT systems used to support the business.
Ollie services all operational areas of the business, including Freshwater, Marine, Processing and Huon’s corporate teams. Congratulations Ollie!
A shout out to Huon’s other nominees at the awards night, Chantelle Kapofu and the teams that worked on the Esker Project and the Feed Bag Tracking and Delivery Project.
Sweating it out for Variety Tasmania
Team Huon recently participated in the Spin4Kids event, raising funds for Variety the Children’s Charity of Tasmania.
Supporting the vital work of Variety is part of Huon’s commitment to give back to the communities in which we operate.
We’re proud to contribute funding and participating in a range of events to help Tasmanian children in need.
The team smashed out a combined total of 147km, raising more than $600, and were unquestionably the most enthusiastic and supportive team on the day (with the best dance moves).
A big thank you to Huon’s athletes: Jasmin Freeth, Liana Glanville, Rachel Burke, Nathanael Wassif, Chantelle Kapofu, Ollie Reynolds, Robert Casboult, Kylie Smith, Sammy
Kluga, Sai Nimmagadda and Hannah Gray.
The team was joined by Sports Minister, Nic Street, Southern Cross Austereo Vic/Tas GM, Ally Bradley, JackJumpers COO Darren Smith, and Property Council Tasmania Executive Director, Rebecca Ellston and husband Ben Steike.
Huon also ran a stall at the Variety Book Fair, providing an opportunity to engage with thousands of people who attended the event at PW1.
Sea to Spoon with Tassal and the Tasmanian Hospitality Association
What do you get if you mix Tassal seafood, Tassie chefs and some picturesque Tassie venues together? You get some delicious recipes to try off the back of the recent THA and Tassal collaboration!
The Sea to Spoon series has launched online as the two businesses come together to celebrate their long-standing partnership with some short videos to showcase local chefs and delicious seafood.
The inaugural series started with Chef Matt from Crowne Plaza Hobart, who demonstrated how to whip up a Tassal salmon bagel to wow any brunch guest.
Matt said he loved cooking with salmon.
“The quality of Tassal salmon is really nice and we have such nice fresh clean waters down here.
“Being so close to Hobart and knowing where the products are coming from makes a huge difference when selling it to a guest at the table.”
THA CEO Steve Old headed out on some Tassal site tours and said it was a great opportunity for the chefs to see how good the operations are.
“What we want to continue to do
is put the best produce on our plates here in Tassie, and Tassal is one of those products.”
Click or scan to Watch the video
Crowne Plaza Chef Matt shows off the dish
Donations to local charities
Huon’s Community team has wrapped another successful round of donations to 11 charities across the Kingborough and Huon regions, in southern Tasmania.
In July, Huon donated more than 300 kgs of salmon to food relief organisation to help feed families over winter, including: Kingborough Helping Hands, Rosebery Neighbourhood House, Salvation Army Huonville, Kingston Neighbourhood House, Kingborough Family Church, Jireh House Kingston,
Geeveston Community Centre, Salvation Army Doorways program, (Kingborough), Dover Emergency Food Pantry and Huon Anglican Church.
Huon’s team were pleased to lend an extra hand to the Geeveston Community Centre (GeCo). They assisted with distribution of donations alongside GeCo’s weekly community food pantry service and cooked up a salmon BBQ for recipients to grab a bite to eat as they came along.
Each organisation plays a vital role in supporting families and individuals facing challenges, and Huon is proud to stand alongside them in their efforts. Huon proudly partners with local emergency food relief providers, whose amazing volunteers facilitate the distribution of thousands of kilograms of salmon throughout the community each year. This initiative provides vital protein supplies for people struggling to access food.
The Tassal Ten Story
The Dover Fun Run was born out of a long-standing desire to give back to the community, in thanks for the wonderful support for the Skinner family in their time of need.
Little Annabelle was just 17 months old when she was involved in a freak accident resulting in a horrific head injury. Annabelle’s family spent anxious weeks by her side in Hobart’s Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at the Royal Hobart Hospital. With expert care and attention, Annabelle made a full recovery and is now a happy and healthy nine-year-old.
At the time of her injury, Annabelle’s parents, Gemma and John, became very aware of the pressures that the Hobart PICU faced, and they began to toy with the idea of holding a community fun run to support the Paediatric Unit in Hobart. After four years, they were finally able to make it happen with the support of local community group, Far South Future, and many generous volunteers.
The first Dover Fun Run was held in 2019, and attracted 250 runners, raising $7072 for the PICU. Despite Covid challenges it is now a much-anticipated annual event attended by runners and families from across Tassie.
Annabelle’s Mum Gemma said they raised over $10,000 for Hobart’s Paediatric Unit in 2023 and hope to increase this further in 2024 with more than $47,000 raised in just five years.
“Annabelle’s dad John is a Tassal employee and at the time of Annabelle’s accident Tassal was incredibly supportive, from organising working bees at our place with fellow Tassal employees, to helping with fundraising.
“When John and I finally felt like we could muster the strength and be emotionally ready we started floating the concept of a fun run and Tassal has been beside us ever since. From this, the iconic Tassal Ten was born! “We have continued to grow
adding new runs and new sponsors which is fantastic. It is so important to give back to our community that rallied to support us and ultimately give more to the PICU, however, we can’t achieve this if we don’t continue to get the support from our sponsors.
“It really is a big buzz on the day, it’s such a fun family event, not only for our locals but for the many families that travel down. What blows me away each year though is our amazing volunteers. It is so nice to see all the Tassal employees get behind it and give us this incredible support,” Gemma said.
For those interested in next year’s event there is more info at this link!
The Tassal Team at the Dover Fun Run
Recycled salmon nets help rescued wildlife
Injured wildlife across the Huon Valley will now be able to recover safely with an upgraded enclosure made from recycled salmon farming netting.
Mountain River wildlife rehabilitators, Sophie and Austin Greenwood, faced a critical setback when a Tasmanian Devil breached the defences of their previous enclosure in January 2024, resulting in the tragic loss of two rescued animals.
Huon Aquaculture’s Net Maintenance team came to the rescue, reinforcing the enclosure and using recycled netting from salmon farming operations to create a state-of-the-art wildlife enclosure.
The upgraded enclosure will now accommodate a diverse range of wildlife including pademelons, Bennett’s wallabies, and various bush birds such as magpies, forest ravens, wattle birds, and tawny frogmouths.
Wildlife rehabilitator Sophie Greenwood, said the netting would not only provide secure shelter but also facilitate essential flight training for the birds, contributing to their rehabilitation and readiness for release.
“This new setup is more than just a replacement; it’s a major upgrade. We thought we were getting a new enclosure, but we’ve ended up with a huge
aviary! The improvement is significant, and it’s all thanks to Huon’s support.”
The team expressed its heartfelt gratitude to Huon, particularly to Jason Ley, whose dedication and availability were crucial throughout the project.
“With Jason and the team, nothing seemed to be a problem,” Sophie noted. “We want to extend our sincere thanks to Huon Aquaculture for its invaluable help, and to everyone involved for their prompt and effective assistance.”
Huon Nets Manager Jason Ley said the team poured countless hours into the rebuild, working outside of their normal schedule to enhance the safety and functionality of the new habitat.
“It’s great to give back to the community when we can. We’re proud to contribute to the great work Sophie and Austin are doing and ensure wellbeing of local wildlife,” Jason said.
“This community assistance project underscores Huon’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community support within the Huon Valley.”
Free sushi to celebrate World salmon Day
World Salmon Day was celebrated on October 8 with Salmon Tasmania giving away 500 serves of salmon sushi in Wellington Court, Hobart.
“In Tasmania we have a lot to celebrate”, said Salmon Tasmania CEO Luke Martin.
“Our salmon industry is the state’s largest primary producer, farming healthy, low carbon protein and it is truly one of Tasmania’s great success stories, employing more than 5,000 people across the state, most of those in regional areas of Tasmania.
“Tasmanians love their salmon. It has become a staple in households across the state.
“As an industry we are proud of the contribution we make to regional communities and the important role we play as a major employer; generating jobs and economic activity across the state.
“You can’t go to the shops in the Huon Valley without seeing salmon workers in their uniform with 1 in 4 jobs in the valley related to the salmon industry.
“It’s not just the direct economic activity and jobs created by the salmon industry, it’s the flowon benefits as well, like the local shops and takeaway stores that wouldn’t thrive without the business they get from salmon industry workers every day.
“We value our fellow lovers of salmon, and we value the community so what better way to celebrate World Salmon Day than to offer up free salmon sushi right in the middle of Hobart.”
our people
Justin Clarke
Diver Team Leader
Tassal/Cooke - 7 years
Role and what I like most about it:
Justin is a Dive Team Leader in Strahan working with a small team of four divers.
I love working on the water on the beautiful West Coast and feel lucky to have Ocean Beach at his doorstep for fishing after shifts.
Career history:
I started my diving career after moving to Tasmania from
Adelaide at the end of 2016. Previous to this I worked as a welder for seven years.
Hobbies:
Camping, diving, fishing and playing golf!
Favourite band: Foo Fighters.
Favourite movie: Last Breath.
Photo: Sammie Saltmarsh
Photography
Role and what I like most about it:
James is Huon’s Freshwater Environment Manager.
I love my role as it is so diverse and allows me to travel around all Huon’s land based freshwater sites and work with all the amazing staff that run them, along with the bonus of seeing our beautiful state as he travels around.
James
Freshwater
Huon/JBS
Hill
Environment Manager
1.5 years
Career history:
I have been an environmental scientist for 20 years, previously working in mining and consulting.
Hobbies:
Sailing (cruising yachts) and building things like sheds, gardens and landscaping.
Favourite band: Red Hot Chilli Peppers.
Favourite movie: Pulp Fiction.
Michael Drake
Shift Operations Manager
Petuna/Sealord - 8 years
Role and what I like most about it:
I love the day-to-day challenges of my role. I’ve been working on the water all my life, so I really enjoy it. Watching the industry change over the years has been excellent
Career history:
I have been in the industry more than 23 years
Hobbies:
Camping, fishing and playing golf, I’m really good at it..
Favourite band: 5 Finger Death Punch
Favourite band: Happy Gilmore
Enjoying our product
GIN CURED GRAVADLAX WITH PICKLED CUCUMBER AND MUSTARD SAUCE
METHOD:
To make the GRAVADLAX
Combine salt, sugar, peppercorns, juniper and gin in a bowl, stir to combine.
Place a piece of plastic wrap longer than the salmon on a work bench and scatter a little of the salt mixture over plastic.
Lay salmon on top, pat remaining mixture onto flesh. Wrap and refrigerate, turning once, until lightly cured (8-10 hours).
Rinse off salt mixture off the salmon, and pat dry with paper towel. Scatter over chopped dill, pat well into flesh, wrap with plastic wrap and refrigerate until required.
To serve, slice very thinly at an angle and serve with slices of rye bread, pickled cucumber and mustard sauce.
TO MAKE THE MUSTARD SAUCE
Combine all ingredients in a small bowl. Pop in the fridge until ready to serve.
TO MAKE THE PICKLED CUCUMBER
In a large bowl, place vinegar, sugar, salt and stir until sugar is dissolved. And the cucumber and dill stir to combine and refrigerate until ready to serve. These pickles are best eaten on the day they are made.
Prep time 10 hours
Cooking time 10 mins
Easy
Serves 6
INGREDIENTS:
FOR GRAVADLAX
1kg whole fillet of salmon
100g sea salt
100g caster sugar
1 tbs black peppercorns, crushed
1 tbs juniper berries, crushed
100ml gin
1 cup fresh dill, chopped
FOR MUSTARD SAUCE
4 tbsp mayonnaise
4 tbsp wholegrain mustard
1 tsp salt
2 tbs fresh dill, chopped
FOR PICKLED CUCUMBER
2 Lebanese cucumbers, thinly sliced
½ cup caster sugar
1 tsp salt
½ cup rice wine vinegar
handful fresh dill, chopped
