FISHING TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS today

Volume 22 No 2 April/May 2009

INSIDE: >2 Spring Bay Seafoods > P3 TSIC at Wooden Boat Festival > P20 Spotlight on Australian Salmon > 30 Certificate of Election

Tasmanian Seafood TSIC Industry Council 2009 Election of 9 Directors

I have conducted an election in accordance with the rules of the Tasmanian Seafood Industry Council.

I have declared the following eight candidates

Giles FISHER Rodney HERWEYNEN Sam IBBOTT Robert MILNER Lindsay William NEWMAN Neville PERRYMAN Peter STEGMANN Amanda Jane WAY elected unopposed to serve as Directors of the Board for a two-year term of office.

Julian Type — Deputy Electoral Commissioner — 2 March 2009

Level 2, Telstra Centre (GPO Box 300) 70 Collins Street, Hobart Tas 7000 Phone 1800 801 701 or 6233 2000 Fax 6224 0217 Email us at [email protected] Visit out website at www.electoral.tas.gov.au FISHING TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS President’s Report 2 $1.3 million boost to blue mussel research 2 Spring Bay Seafoods’ mussels 3 Rural Financial Counselling Service Tasmania 4 Oysters Tasmania 5 Profile: Tom lewis 6 Profile: Raymond Murphy 7 TSIC’s Chief Executive’s Report 8 today TSIC news > The lack of pesticide regulation in Tasmania 9 By Catch 11 Volume 22 No 2 April/May 2009 Industry Wide 12

Department news TASMANIAN SEAFOOD DEPARTMENT OF PRIMARY > Review of the Scalefish Fishery Management Plan 15 INDUSTRY COUNCIL (TSIC) INDUSTRIES AND WATER > Clean Up Australia Day 16 PO Box 878, GPO Box 44, > Northern Pacific Seastar 16 Sandy Bay 7006 Hobart, 7001 > Rock Lobster port meetings May 2009 17 Ph: 03 6224 2332 Ph: 03 6233 8011 > New mackerel rules 17 Fax: 03 6224 2321 Kim Evans – Secretary Email: [email protected] Ph: 03 6233 3037 International News 18 Web: www.tsic.org.au Wes Ford – General Manager, SeaNet is back 19 ABN: 61 009 555 604 Primary Industries Division TSIC at the Wooden Boat Festival 2009 20 Ph: 03 6233 6545 Young leaders in the making: Joey McKibben and Bryan Denny 22 TSIC DIRECTORS Robert Gott – Director, Marine Lindsay Newman – President Resources TAFI news Ph: 0418 368 708 Ph: 03 6233 6632 > Launch of a Marine Nation: National Framework for Neville Perryman Grant Pullen – Manager, Marine Research and Innovation 24 – Vice President Wild Fisheries > TAFI tagging update 25 Ph: 0419 878 086 Ph: 03 6233 3157 > The state of the Tasmanian scalefish fishery 2007-08 26 Sam Ibbott > Have you seen any adult eastern lobsters in your catch? 28 – Treasurer TASMANIAN AQUACULTURE & FISHERIES INSTITUTE > Assessment of management options to minimise Ph: 0400 697 175 formation of ‘barrens’ habitat by the long-spined sea Giles Fisher Private Bag 49, Hobart 7001 urchin (Centrostephanus rodgersii) in Tasmania 29 Ph: 0427 508 055 Professor Colin Buxton Rodney Herweynen > Research spotlight on Australian salmon 30 – Director Ph: 0418 130 193 > Dr Gretta Pecl – 2009 Fulbright Tasmania Scholar 31 Ph: 03 6227 7256 Robert Milner Fax: 03 6227 8035 MAST news Ph: 0417 037 046 > Jetty reconstruction program 32 Peter Stegmann Ph: 0427 278 863 Seafood Training Tasmania 33 Amanda Way Regional Food Producers Innovation and Productivity Program 33 Ph: 0419 393 836 Curiosities 34 New edition of Sharks and Rays of Australia launched 36 Winds, thunderstorms and showers 37 Depression: Australia’s hidden illness 38 TSIC STAFF Seafood Selections 39 Neil Stump – Chief Executive Ph: 0417 394 009 [email protected] Directory 40 Emily Ogier – Project Officer [email protected] Julie Martin – Office Manager [email protected] Mary Brewer – Administrative Officer [email protected]

Advertising index Photographic acknowledgments: Mary Brewer, Hugh Pederson, Sam Ibbott Front cover: Mary Brewer Baily Marine ______10 Sunderland Marine ______BC BDO Kendalls ______37 TasBulk ______6 Beyondblue ______27 TasFRAB ______35 George Town Seafoods ______IBC Tooltech Pty Ltd ______IBC Production by Kettering Marine ______16 Tri-Star Marine ______2 Artemis Publishing Consultants Purple Pig ______7 TSIC ______IFC Ph: 03 6231 6122 RASS Marine Broker ______5 Yanmar ______28 >2 email [email protected] For advertising in Fishing Today Advertising deadline for the next issue: 20 May 2009 contact Mary Brewer at TSIC on Ph: 03 6224 2332

Fishing Today is distributed free to the Tasmanian Seafood Industry. Editorial content is sourced from diverse interest groups within the industry who have provided material for contribution. The editor intends to present contributions in a fair manner in order to promote constructive debate in relation to issues important to the Tasmanian Seafood Industry. The editor only therefore accepts responsibility for editorial content over which he has had direct control. Contributions that are printed in full shall not be the responsibility of the editor. Any advertisement submitted for publication is done so on the basis that the advertiser or advertising agencies upon lodging material with the publisher for publication has complied with all relevant laws and regulations and therefore indemnifies the publisher its servants and agents in relation to defamation, slander of title, breach of copyright, infringement of trade marks or names of publication titles, unfair competition to trade practices, royalties or violation of rights or privacy and warrants that the advertisement in no way whatsoever is capable or being misleading or deceptive or otherwise in breach or part V of the Trade Practices Act 1974 (Cwth) (as amended from time to time). > MarinovaTSIC’s President’s Report

TSIC ELECTIONS

TSIC elections have been held and the Association from 1986 and note these new Board is scheduled to hold their first purposes: meeting on 20 April 2009. On the same • to unite all sections of the fishing day our 23rd Annual General Meeting will industry in Tasmania for their common be held and an invitation is extended to benefit; all members to attend. • to promote efforts within the industry 1986. We need to proceed with an open Ongoing dialogue and solutions to your for the solving of common problems; mind in a united effort to sustain our concerns continue to be progressed at and industry, maintain its integrity and pursue many levels and your productive and all opportunities to improve our resources • to obtain for the Tasmanian industry proactive input is always welcome. and investigate any worthwhile ideas to the best solutions which the economy introduce a new generation of fishers, It is interesting to look back on the of Australia will permit. reasons why this organisation evolved. processors and marine farmers. These aims are highlighted as much I have recently re-read the Articles of Lindsay Newman because of their relevance today as in President

$1.3 million boost to blue mussel research

A $1.3 million research project to There seem to be problems associated environment in which these animals are examine how to increase numbers of with that transition of life,’ Assoc. Prof. undergoing the transition.’ Moltschaniwskyj said. ‘We’ll be looking juvenile mussels available to commercial Funding for the project is coming from at a number of issues associated with aquaculture operations, and to increase the Fisheries Research and Development what allows for successful production Australia’s ability to produce more Corporation (FRDC), along with significant of baby mussels and they include mussels for national and international contributions from industry partners elements of health, nutrition and physical markets, is about to begin. Spring Bay Seafoods, Shellfish Culture and biological characteristics of the Research will be led by Australian and UTAS. Maritime College (AMC) Associate Professor Natalie Moltschaniwskyj and Dr Chris Bolch of the National Centre for Marine Conservation and Resource ALUMINIUM BOATS Sustainability and associated with TAFI. The bulk of the experiments will be CUSTOM MADE conducted at Spring Bay Seafoods and at the hatchery facilities at Shellfish Culture. Assoc. Prof. Moltschaniwskyj said the traditional practice of collecting juvenile mussels, or spat, from the wild, then placing them in farms, meant growth in commercial production had always been limited by numbers available for collection. Commercial craft specialists ‘The project is focussed on trying to address the bottlenecks in the hatchery production of blue mussels. We’re TRI-STAR MARINE particularly interested in that process when a baby mussel goes from being a 57 Gepp Parade pelagiac juvenile to attaching onto a rope DERWENT PARK 6273 6659 and starting life as an attached mussel.

2 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > Spring Bay Seafoods

Mussels in the tray pack have a use-by date of eight days beyond harvest. If you buy them loose, take them out of the SHHH... Don’t wake the plastic bag and put them in a big bowl in the fridge. Once a day give them a good mussels, says the sticker rattle around, which will make any that have opened, shut up. on a kilo pack of Spring Bay Do not use mussels that are open and will not close if given a good tap, but chefs and pesky food writers often have Seafoods’ mussels promoted the ‘rule’ not to eat mussels that have not opened after cooking. Such by Elaine Reeves, the Mercury advice is misinformed. Lamb says there is nothing wrong with a mussel that won’t open – it simply is ‘hanging on harder’ and However, they are not really in suspended atmosphere). They are easy and quick to not releasing the muscle to open the shell. animation. The atmosphere inside the pack cook and actually let you know when they Leave them on the heat a minute more, is oxygen-rich to keep them breathing with are done by opening up. and if they still don’t open you can prise just enough air pressure to keep them They are high in protein and heat- them open with a knife and safely closed. healthy omega-3 fatty acids, but low eat them. The award-winning packaging is the final in fat and calories. They taste terrific Spring Bay Seafoods is very mussel- flourish in an operation that starts with with European treatment as moules oriented these days – they account for growing the algae to feed baby mussels in mariniere or tossed about with Asian about 70 per cent of production – but the hatchery. The larvae are reared, grown flavours of chilli and lemongrass. Or you it was not always so. In 2002, starfish to spat, then juveniles in a tiny shell with a can pop three of them on a plate in the invaded the lantern baskets in which little ‘foot’ so they can attach themselves microwave on high for one minute and scallops were growing – and ate them. to something in the water. They are then they will be done – steamed in their own It registered though that the starfish placed in the deep, fast-flowing waters of briny juice. Add 20 seconds extra per were not bothering the mussels in the the Mercury Passage between the mainland extra mussel. same area. and Maria Island to grow for 12 to 14 It is hard to understand what is holding months. Mussels have been grown at the farm for us back. Spring Bay mussels are not even 20 years, but the supply was inconsistent All along the way, the process has taken tiresome to prepare – they have had a and the volumes were never enough significant investment of more than $1 shave and are shiny black and ready to ‘to get behind them and really develop million, plus time, scientific inquiry and trial go straight to the pot. At the Triabunna and market them,’ said Lamb. Now the and error. Spring Bay Seafoods Managing processing plant, the mussels pass company is the largest single producer of Director Phil Lamb says the company has over a series of rollers and are prodded mussels in Australia (but a couple of other ‘made some quite significant discoveries.’ with rubber prongs so that the beard is big growers add critical mass). And they The success of the breeding program, trapped in the rollers and cut off. have the largest marine farm -- 1600ha in which provides a consistent year-round supply of plump mussels, made the investment in the packaging worthwhile. Mussels lack the cache of scallops or baby abalone, which Spring Bay also handles. Or at least they do here. In Europe, people eat 2.5kg of mussels each a year, while here we consume a paltry 200g each. They also have a taste for mussels in Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam and buy them from Tasmania, because their waters are too warm to grow them. But only 5 per cent of the mussels Spring Bay grows are sold in Tasmania. Not for nothing are mussels regarded as poor man’s food. They only cost around $7 a kilo (more for ones sleeping in a special Myti Blue pulling in mussel ropes in Spring Bay

3 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > Marinova Spring Bay Seafoods

Mercury Passage and smaller leases in really get a grip. It also means they can Okehampton and Great Oyster bays. grow to a larger size than most, because whereas mussels with short beards in Mussels are at their best from January calm waters will let go in the first storm, to March and May to October, but having in Mercury Passage they stand fast. three different growing areas means Spring Bay Seafoods can supply good Mures in Hobart and Kyeema Seafoods mussels throughout the year. in Launceston have the tray packs of Apart from a microwaved mid-morning Spring Bay Seafoods’ mussels. Loose snack, Lamb’s favourite way to have ‘Mussels are more sustainable than mussels are plentiful at Mako and The mussels is with Pernod, celeriac and scallops,’ said Lamb. ‘We can hatch Fish Man punts at Constitution Dock, cream, but he is also partial to a garlic- them, grow and market them ourselves. Wilsons Seafoods in Glenorchy, Stingray and-white wine treatment, with a salsa, in With scallops, you rely on catching them in North Hobart and Barilla Bay near the a coconut curry. in the wild.’ airport. In Triabunna you can buy them at There are recipes for mussels on the The sustainability of Spring Bay the farm gate. Spring Bay Seafoods’ website. Seafoods’ mussel operation has been recognised with its Friend of the Sea accreditation, the most recognised standard for aquaculture sustainability in the world. Soon, Spring Bay mussels will be certified organic. The certification is recognition of the way the mussels are handled in hatchery and processing; the farm conditions are recognised as pristine. The mussels grow on ropes hanging down 35m in cool, fast-moving water and are ‘trained’ from youth to hang on. To do this they grow their byssal thread (the beard) as long as 10cm so they can

Rural Financial Counselling Service Tasmania

Rural Financial Counselling Service confidential and nothing will be disclosed applications, the preparation of budgets Tasmania (RFCS Tasmania) is a to outside agencies or individuals without and cash flows, or negotiations with statewide, confidential and free service, the client’s permission. creditors and financial institutions providing information and support for the Its main aims are to: • social security benefits – assisting with fishing community. understanding eligibility rules etc for Help primary producers, fishermen and RFCS Tasmania is part of the national age, disability and carers pensions, and small rural businesses to identify ways to Rural Financial Counselling Program, and other benefits become self reliant and better equipped to receives its funding from the Australian manage change and adjustment through: Referrals to relevant professional advisors Government, DPIW, Rural Youth for further assistance. Tasmania, and a number of commercial • helping to assess and understand their sponsors. The Rural Financial financial position; How the service is provided: Counselling Service (RFCS) has been • assist in identifying options and Rural Financial Counsellors are based extensively reviewed by the Australian develop a plan of action; in Launceston, Burnie and Hobart. Government and a national framework • support and facilitate their financial Arrangements can be made for the for an enhanced program, consistent decisions; and counsellor to visit you at your business with the findings of the review, has been • make people aware of their eligibility for site, your home or arrange for you developed. Funding for the new program various benefits or assistance to which to visit their office simply by phoning commenced 1 September 2006. they are entitled. 1300 883 276. Guaranteed confidentiality Particular areas where RFCS Tasmania Or see the Rural Financial Counselling offers information and assistance include: Rural Financial Counselling Service Service Tasmania website at: Tasmania is a confidential service. All • financial issues – it can help with loan www.rfcstasmania.com.au. matters discussed with the service are

4 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > Oysters Tasmania

and ensure activities and projects make effective use of its tight budget. A priority will be to identify and secure additional, external funding to gain as much leverage as possible from this industry investment,” Neil said. In addition to Neil’s position as Chair, the steering committee’s prime contacts are currently Ian Duthie for TORC and Richard Pugh for TSEC. Representation for TAC is yet to be decided. Oysters Tasmania group An initial focus for Oysters Tasmania will be to identify the industry’s main challenges in areas such as profitability, a breakthrough product quality and the environment. With solid industry data and support as The recent formation of the industry in oyster, abalone and salmon activities a foundation, the aim will be to secure umbrella organisation, Oysters Tasmania, since the mid-1980s. additional funding to deliver projects designed to meet these challenges. is a breakthrough for the industry and will TSIC’s Chief Executive, Neil Stump, who work to gain funds for projects to address has been elected to chair the Oysters Oysters Tasmania is already planning the industry challenges. Tasmania steering committee, is pleased establishment of a new website, which It is jointly funded by the Tasmanian to see this initiative get off the ground. will be the sector’s prime means of Shellfish Executive Council, Tasmanian “TSIC is very supportive of this new communication with stakeholders. Oyster Research Council, Tasmanian organisation and position. While the Website, phone and email details will be Seafood Industry Council and the parent organisations – TSEC, TORC, TSIC finalised soon and will be made available Tasmanian Aquaculture Council, and will and TAC – will continue to operate in their widely so all industry members can easily provide an executive officer and associated own spheres as usual, the new Executive contact Tom and his team with thoughts services to the Tasmanian industry. Officer will provide additional governance, on the challenges and opportunities representation, communication services The formation of Oysters Tasmania facing the Tasmanian sector, and how and project development-management and the establishment of the executive industry should address these. services. officer position is recognition of four In the interim, please contact Neil main needs: to reduce the increasingly “The steering committee will work closely Stump at TSIC on (03) 6224 2332 unsustainable workload being shouldered to guide and support Oysters Tasmania for further information. largely by volunteers within the sector; to improve the level of representation of the Tasmanian industry to external Consultant/Broker for State and Commonwealth stakeholders; to help coordinate the commercial fishing licences activities of the parent bodies; and to provide executive support to TSEC, TORC Buying, selling and leasing all and TAC. In addition, the Executive Officer will assist TSIC in the development and licence types and vessels management of projects that will provide a benefit to the wider Tasmanian aquaculture and seafood industry. The Executive Officer role was filled through public advertisement, with shortlisted applicants interviewed by a panel of representatives from TSIC, PO Box 109 TSEC and TORC. The panel is pleased to South Hobart announce that the successful candidate Tasmania, 7004 is Dr Tom Lewis, who will be supported Ph (03) 6224 8299 by his staff at Rural Development Call Margaret Atkins Fax (03) 6224 0900 Services. Tom is well-known in Tasmanian Confidentiality assured Mobile 0419 375 578 aquaculture circles, having been involved

5 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > Profile: Tom Lewis

Tom bridges the gap by Mary Brewer

Readers of Fishing Today know Dr Tom Tom is currently CEO of Hobart-based industries, through participation on the Lewis through his columns during the company, Rural Development Services. Tasmanian Fisheries Research Advisory past year or so on quality, leadership Before joining RDS in 2005, Tom spent time Board, the Tasmanian Aquaculture and succession planning. On top of these as operations manager for the Australian Research Advisory Group, the Tasmanian bigger picture topics, Tom’s knowledge Food Safety Centre of Excellence, industry Aquaculture Council, the Australian Food of the seafood industry is surprisingly projects manager for the Centre for Food and Grocery Council Allergen Forum, the thorough and varied and his experience Safety and Quality (University of Tasmania) Tasmanian Leaders Program and the spans the commercial and academic and a few other commercial and academic Tasmanian Business Sustainability worlds. aquaculture and food safety roles. Round Table. From working as a project scientist for Tom’s focus is on the development, So I asked Tom what he does in his SALTAS, senior biologist for Tasmanian management and implementation of spare time. What spare time? – work Univalve and as a shellfish hatchery- innovative, practical and high quality mostly – which is hardly surprising given based R&D scientist, Tom has been R&D projects. Having spent time in his involvements. Born on the North West involved in commercial and academic both camps, Tom understands the Coast, Tom spent his childhood on and in ventures in aquaculture and food safety needs and drivers of commercial and the water fishing, diving and sailing. academic organisations and strives since the early 1980s. He still loves getting outdoors and to be an effective link between these Somewhat of a self-confessed ‘slow particularly enjoys – “more like ‘enjoys two sometimes disparate sectors. learner’, Tom spent a fair bit of time at remembering’, these days”, he says Tas Uni, getting a Masters degree for So how does he provide this linkage? – mountain climbing and back country work on bacterial diseases in oyster Through helping design, manage and skiing. Tom and his wife spent 1990-91 hatcheries and a PhD for an FRDC funded implement projects that support open and in Canada, where they were able to find study on marine microbes that produce pragmatic communication. Tom believes all the challenge they needed, and a bit those healthy omega-3 fatty acids. in nurturing strong, diverse research more, from these sports. But now, when partnerships, and in order to do this he Tom does get out, it’s often with a fly rod So what motivates Tom to become believes we need to ensure that everyone in hand. And he couldn’t think of a better involved in so many areas of endeavour? involved – industry, government and place to live than Tassie. Where else He maintains that it is the pleasure academia – can listen and be heard can you indulge in an amazing natural he gets from working with enthusiastic by their project partners. environment while being part of a world- Australian agri-food enterprises as they class seafood industry? work to increase their competitiveness Tom has a history of active engagement and market share. in the Tasmanian seafood and broader

6 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > Profile: Raymond Murphy

Raymond keeps up the pace – from orchids to

oysters by Mary Brewer

With seemingly boundless energy and managing a public land use inquiry into Asked about his favourite way of cooking a huge smile, Raymond Murphy greets marine protected areas – before joining Rural the fish he catches? The simpler the me in the offices of Rural Development Development Services as a consultant in better, he advises. One of his most Services. 2007. memorable meals was enjoyed when he He is obviously excited about his new role Why so many changes in such a short was doing trawl surveys at TAFI. Between with Oysters Tasmania and feels it aligns period of time? Well, Raymond confesses the crew members, they managed to well with his backgound and interests. he loves new challenges and yet all the sashimi many different species of fish, though not all successfully! Raymond has extensive experience areas he has worked in are interwoven and working with the Tasmanian fishing and complementary. How does he see the future for the marine farming industry and is a well- His career also allows him time to pursue oyster industry in Tasmania? “Extremely known researcher and project manager. his passion for fly-fishing. With a young positively,” says Raymond. “Tasmanian family, he would love to have more time to oysters are such a fantastic fresh product. After completing a Bachelor of Applied With visionaries within the industry who Science from the Royal Melbourne Institute explore other interests but makes do with bushwalking, bike-riding, boating, cooking, can conceive cooperative ventures like of Technology in 1988, he first worked as a Oysters Tasmania, the future of the Scientific and Technical Officer doing plant gardening and reading – enough to make you feel exhausted just listening to him. Tasmania oyster industry is one I am tissue culture propagation in Victoria’s looking forward to being involved with”. Department of Agriculture, for the viticulture industry. A move to the Northern Territory saw him working on orchids but a short time later he had the chance to work in Tasmania at the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries’ Taroona laboratories, where he conducted field and laboratory-based fisheries research, primarily in relation to live reef fish. Having always been fascinated by the Antarctic, Raymond then joined a penguin monitoring program at Mawson and Davis stations, working with the Australian Antarctic Division as a volunteer field • Oyster mesh • Deck hose researcher. He went on to complete a Graduate Diploma in Antarctic and • Bait saver mesh • Deck mats Southern Ocean Studies (Honours) from Cable ties Anti-fatigue mats the University of Tasmania. • • Returning to the fisheries area, Raymond • Divers’ hose and couplings • Tube matting joined TAFI in 1999 to conduct research Stainless steel clamps, Moundings & extrusions into the health of Tasmanian estuaries. • • Two years later he was back with DPIW, valves and fittings • Gland packings and seals this time assisting in the development and assessment of the marine farming Other branches: Head Office environmental monitoring program and Victoria: providing scientific and policy advice on 180-184 McIntyre Road Sunshine ecosystem management. He represented North Sunshine Bayswater the Department on various State and Victoria 3020 Commonwealth committees. Stawell Ph: (03) 9366 7011 Fax: (03) 9364 5052 Changing direction again in 2005, NSW: Raymond worked with the RPDC – Sydney

7 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 TSIC’s Chief Executive’s Report by Neil Stump

locations, a thorough evaluation of on TSIC members who use Victoria both the sustainability of these fishing Dock. In keeping with the concept that operations and the economic importance Sullivans Cove remains a ‘working port’ of these areas to individual commercial it is essential that fishers using Victoria fishers should be undertaken. At the very Dock are able to conduct repairs and least, if commercial fishers are to be maintenance, unload their catch and load prohibited from fishing in these areas, stores and fishing gear. Any moves to compensation should apply, particularly if reduce the number of car parks available it is determined that commercial fishing for dock users and to restrict access does not affect the sustainability of fish to vessels for the activities mentioned stocks in these areas. above will result in Victoria Dock no If you have any concerns regarding any longer being part of a ‘working port.’ of the proposed changes please provide Again, is this a desirable outcome? a submission to DPIW by 30 April, or call Both Lindsay Newman and I have met SCALEFISH REVIEW the TSIC office to discuss your concerns. with the Sullivans Cove Waterfront Submissions in response to the proposed We shall be making our own submission Authority to discuss the potential impacts changes to the rules for the scalefish on your behalf. on our industry and we will also be fishery must be submitted by 30 April making a submission to them. 2009. By the time of publication, DPIW AERIAL SPRAYING will have completed a series of port At the February and March Board OYSTERS TASMANIA meetings around Tasmania at which all meetings of TSIC and TAC, both Boards As reported in more detail in this issue stakeholders will have been given the expressed their continued concern at of Fishing Today, TSIC in partnership opportunity to question DPIW staff in monitoring and reporting requirements with the Tasmanian Aquaculture Council, relation to the proposed changes. for aerial spraying operations. Following TSEC and TORC, have formed Oysters From a commercial fishery perspective, a spill of a pesticide in the Georges Bay Tasmania. The primary function of the the changes that will have the most catchment, industry concerns have been group will be to develop and oversee the impact relate to management of striped heightened. As part of the changes to work program for the newly appointed trumpeter. Two measures that I believe the pesticide monitoring program, TSIC EO for the aquaculture industry. Rural industry will accept is an increase in will be requesting that the monitoring Development Services (RDS) have been the size limit from 480mm to 500mm program for pesticides and herbicides selected to provide the service. Tom and a spawning closure for September in catchments be more closely aligned Lewis the Managing Director of RDS is and October. The proposed change that with spraying operations and significant well known to many in the industry and industry cannot accept is a reduction in rainfalls. brings an extensive knowledge of the the trip limit from 250kg to 200kg. Mainly industry to the position. Assisting Tom in Most within the seafood industry due to the introduction of the 250kg delivering the service is Raymond Murphy would accept that farmers and forestry trip limit in 2001, commercial catches who has previous experience in seafood operators will from time to time have a have fallen from approximately 100 industry matters through his employment need to apply pesticides and herbicides. tonnes to around 20 tonnes per annum. at DPIW, TAFI and the RPDC. However, in doing so, the utmost care Clearly the commercial fishery is doing must be taken to ensure those chemicals This is an exciting development for the its bit to reduce the pressure on striped that can impact on the health of humans aquaculture industry and especially the trumpeter stocks. Any further reduction in and aquatic organisms are used in oyster industry. It is envisaged that the the trip limit will make it totally unviable a manner that ensures any potential creation of this position will enable the for commercial fishers to target striped impacts are minimised. industry to tackle the challenges and trumpeter. The end result will be that this issues confronting the industry in a more iconic species will disappear completely strategic manner and provide better from the menu of eating establishments VICTORIA DOCK outcomes. around Tasmania. Is that a necessary The Sullivans Cove Waterfront Authority and desirable outcome? released plans for public comment There is also a proposal to prohibit relating to the use of public space in DUMPING OF SEA STARS IN commercial scale fishing in Ansons Bay the Franklin Wharf precinct, including FREDRICK HENRY BAY and Port Sorell. Although catch records Victoria Dock. These plans include the The recent discovery of a large number show that over recent years there have reorganisation and reduction in the of northern Pacific sea stars (Asterias been only small amounts of scalefish number of car parks available in the amurensis) in Frederick Henry Bay taken by commercial fishers in these area. These plans may potentially impact resulted in considerable media coverage

8 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > TSIC News

including the inevitable conspiracy theory that the sea stars were deliberately dumped in the area. There The lack of pesticide were also claims that the sea stars have the potential to devastate the aquaculture industry in adjacent waters. regulation in Tasmania Industry members who have conducted marine farming operations in Pipe Clay by Jim Harris Lagoon and Pittwater for quite some time report that the sea stars have Back in 2004 the death of millions The Department of Primary Industry been present in these waters in varying of oysters in Georges Bay, St Helens and Water (DPIW) is the regulator of numbers for over ten years. However, resulted in a flurry of both independent chemical use and water in Tasmania and because of the nature of oyster and Government reports into what may currently monitors 55 sites across the farming in the region and the manner have caused these mortalities. The state for a range of 19 chemicals. The in which farming operations have been official Government conclusion was that baseline monitoring program is carried conducted, there has been little if any fresh water from a one-in-100-year flood out on a quarterly basis. An additional impact. event was the most likely culprit. four catchments are monitored for the same 19 chemicals during flood An alternative independent research events, referred to as flood monitoring. NATIONAL SYSTEM FOR MARITIME flagged pesticides that had been applied Both programs have fundamental short SAFETY REGULATIONS in the upper catchment six weeks prior comings which include: In previous issues of Fishing Today to flooding as a potential cause. Many progress towards a single national pesticides used by both forestry and 1. sampling for the baseline is not event system for maritime safety regulation to agriculture are highly toxic to the marine or rainfall-based and, as such, has be headed by the Australian Maritime environment and can be quite mobile with little relationship to a spray operation Safety Authority (AMSA) has been the ability to move off site. that may have occurred for example, two months prior to sampling; discussed. Regardless of what caused the oyster A second round of industry consultation deaths in 2004, pesticide runoff from 2. the chemicals being tested for may meetings is to be held in April. Our operations further up the catchment have have no relationship to the chemicals concern is that far from providing a now been highlighted as a threat to the applied on a particular spray event streamlined less costly system, there environment we live and operate in. The as there are over 100 pesticides will be increased duplication and extra St Helen’s case should not be looked at registered for use in Tasmania and costs for fishermen, principally to fund in isolation as plantation forestry alone only 19 tested for; and a larger bureaucracy in Canberra. now occurs in 44 of Tasmania’s 48 3. sample analysis targets mostly the catchments, with the plantation estate soluble chemical component of the If this is indeed the case we will be approaching 300,000 hectares. This water while removing and leaving making strong representation to our industry is reliant on pesticides for both untested the suspended solids. State Minister, Graeme Sturges, weed and pest management, with the Many chemicals attach strongly to requesting that he does not ratify the pesticides mostly applied by helicopter this particulate matter and have a proposal. at a rate of 400 litres per five minutes. direct pathway to filter feeders such As stated many of these chemicals are as oysters and other shellfish through highly toxic to the marine environment water movement. and so have the potential to not only The results of the DPIW testing are effect marine farming in the estuaries available on their web site www.dpiw. but also sensitive nursery areas for tas.gov.au Surprisingly, the results are commercial and recreational fish species. posted approximately four to six weeks

9 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > TSIC News

after testing and, as you may be aware, and that they were justifiable but, due per annum, although easily monitored various pesticides are routinely detected to the fact they had no obligation, they because of our island status, is unknown. in many of the State’s waterways. refused our request. We pointed out Regulation of pesticide use in Tasmania that through the river linkage from the thus amounts to the applicator following Due to the 2004 experience, the St coupe to Georges Bay we were effectively the label instructions as he sees fit. Helens Marine Farmers have been very neighbors and, that under the Good active in trying to monitor activities in If, as a member of the seafood industry, Neighbour Policy, this information should our catchment, in particular regarding you believe this is not relevant to you, be made available, but again we were pesticide usage. We are committee just consider that your market advantage refused. members of the Break O’Day NRM, we is due largely to the quality of your participated in the Tasmanian Water Currently, there is no aerial spraying code product and the reputation that has Initiative and have membership of for pesticides as it has been under review been built over time. Pesticide detection various community groups with concerns since 2005. Investigation of chemical in exports, water samples, fish kill, regarding pesticide use and water misuse complaints by DPIW is at best disease and abnormality caused through quality. As marine farmers and through lip service, with no prosecutions ever contamination will affect us all. If you our participation in these committees recorded. Chemical usage and its effects find this unacceptable you need to lobby we have sought to find out the extent of are currently impossible to monitor hard to improve this situation before it pesticide usage in our catchment, what due to the lack of available information deteriorates any further. is being used, how much and how often. into what is being used, how much and This sort of information is necessary for where. There is currently no obligation For transfer of information or assistance the development of a credible monitoring for applicators or crop owners to make please contact Jim Harris, St Helens program, indeed a logical first step. pesticide usage information available to Marine Farmers on 0418 503 246 or either Government Agencies or interested email [email protected] Over the past four years we have been parties. Total pesticide usage in the State unable to secure any information on the extent of chemical usage in our area. All we received was the Government’s mantra of ‘world’s best practice’ and that the industry is highly regulated, even though, for instance in the case of forestry, pesticide usage is self-regulated. Applications to access this pesticide usage information has been made to: • DPIW (Marine Farming Branch, Chemical Management Branch, Spray Drift and Referral and the Registrar of Chemicals); • Primary Industries Minister Hon David Llewellyn; • Former Premier Paul Lennon; • Local Council (Break O’Day); • Forest Practices Board; • Forest Practices Authority. Ph: 6264 1999 FAX: 6264 1441 Frustrated from the lack of information provided by Government regulators, 62 Main Road, Huonville we wrote to one of the major forestry AFTER HOURS: Robin Bond 6266 0208 companies. We arranged a meeting to put our concerns forward and to ask • Aluminium dinghies – new & used for notification of the chemicals they • Suppliers of CLARK aluminium boats expected to use and a possible timetable • State distributor for: for application. This company was to harvest and replant a coupe in the upper George area high in our catchment. The Forestry representatives informed us For a deal that won’t be beaten – call us now that they understood industry’s concerns

10 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 By Catch guard rails and bulwarks; gangways for Please visit the website www.dpiw.tas.gov. safe movement on and off the vessel; au/abalone for more information. by Mary Brewer personal protection; dangerous machinery; If you would like to find out more about and field of vision from the operating the Tasmanian Abalone Biosecurity compartment. The public comment period Project, please contact Judi Marshall at DUMPED EPIRBS CAUSE EXPENSIVE closes on 15 May 2009. SEARCHES DPIW on [email protected] or To obtain a copy of the NSCV C1 (03) 6233 6888. A reminder that as of February 2009 the Issues Paper please contact the NMSC 121.5 MHz analogue frequency is no longer Secretariat on 02 9247 2124 or CHANGES TO THE BUREAU’S HF being processed by CORPAS-SARSAT. All download from website: www.nmsc.gov. MARINE RADIO BROADCASTS commercial vessels, and life rafts fitted au/yoursay_2.html to those vessels which operate outside (VOICE ONLY) sheltered waters and more than one BIOSECURITY UPDATE Effective from 31 March 2009, the nautical mile from the shore, must now be Southeast Inshore (Tasmania) and Port fitted with a 406MHz frequency EPIRB. A framework of categories for both Phillip and Western Port (Victoria) local abalone seafood processors and marine waters forecasts, among others, will no It is very important that the old EPIRBs farms has recently been introduced are disposed of correctly. As the batteries longer be broadcast via the Bureau of to industry as draft documents. Meteorology’s HF voice broadcast service. deteriorate they may activate and cause The processor and marine farming an unnecessary and expensive search The local waters forecasts mentioned above categories are synonymous, based were originally included in the program for as happened recently when a discarded around the following risks: EPIRB found on the Latrobe tip sparked completeness rather than necessity as HF an overnight aerial search in the State’s • introduction of a disease into the is primarily for long-range use. The decision north. The older-style beacon’s signal was facility; to no longer include the local waters picked up by a commercial aircraft near • discharge of water from the facility; forecasts in this service and free up more Devonport and sparked an emergency • movement of stock between facilities; time for the observations is supported by the knowledge that most mariners venturing services call out with the Tasmania Police • movement of equipment between in these local waters areas would be more rescue helicopter being sent to the area as facilities; likely to use VHF marine radio or some well as a fixed-wing aircraft from Victoria. • movement of personnel between other method rather than long-range HF facilities; Likewise a 121.5MHz beacon signal marine radio. Mariners are advised to obtain triggered a search during September • disposal of animal wastes; and the local waters forecast via other methods 2008. AusSAR in Canberra asked the • quality and health surveillance of stock. such as VHF marine radio. rescue helicopter to search around the satellite beacon’s location in Frederick The aim of the categories is to ensure Please contact the Bureau’s National Henry Bay with no success and it then compliance in the event of a disease Manager, Marine Weather Services by used a beacon homer to find the beacon outbreak and allow industry to invest email at [email protected] if you require at the Copping tip! in improving their biosecurity as a risk more information on these changes. management strategy. Marine farms and DO NOT LEAVE YOUR OLD BEACON IN THE processors around the state have been SMART GEAR COMPETITION GARDEN SHED EITHER! visited or contacted by the Project Officer Battery World have been contracted to to receive feedback and clarify any points Designed to inspire innovative ideas for receive unwanted and obsolete EPIRBs on the documents. Once finalised, these environmentally-friendly fishing gear, the with locations at 164 Campbell Street, documents will be released as part of the fourth WWF International Smart Gear Hobart and 442 Main Road, Glenorchy. project outcomes. Competition is open. It is searching for new designs for fishing devices that The lessons learned from the AVG reduce bycatch, real-world fishing solutions PUBLIC COMMENT INVITED emergency in September 2008 have now that allow fishermen to fish ‘smarter’ by been integrated into a DPIW Emergency The National Marine Safety Committee better targeting their intended catch while Response Plan. The document is being (NMSC) has released for public comment safeguarding the dolphins, sea turtles and reviewed by the Department and will be an Issues Paper on the arrangement, other marine life often caught unintentionally. provided to the Project Reference Group accommodation and personal safety later in March. The competition is open to eligible entrants requirements on board commercial vessels. from any profession, including fishermen, All restrictions from the emergency This covers issues such as the professional gear manufacturers, teachers, response relating to the taking of abalone requirements for passenger seating, students, engineers, scientists and have been lifted in Tasmania. Restrictions sanitary arrangements, escape and backyard inventors, offering anyone a that applied before the emergency evacuation routes and consideration of chance to win a $30,000 main prize with response are still in place, ie no taking access for the disabled. Other topics two $10,000 runner up prizes. The closing of abalone from northern Bass Strait and covered in the paper relate to deck heights; date is 30 June 2009. Learn more about it King Island. at www.smartgear.org

11 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 Industry

Wide has developed a high level of natural promote Australian wild caught abalone immunity to AVG and while the viral DNA from inferior cultured abalone. This need may exist within some animals, a disease has long been recognised by the industry, response will occur only when the animal through recommendations of various is highly stressed. Proper fish-handling consultants, and is now central to the Tasmanian Abalone and biosecurity protocols will significantly current strategic plans and vision of the reduce the likelihood of any future Australian abalone industry. Council Ltd disease outbreaks. The $1.8 million project will focus on ABALONE VIRUS market development activities in the three largest Chinese cities – Beijing, I am very pleased to report that the final EVALUATION OF MARKET Shanghai and Guangzhou – and will restrictions on abalone fishing in the DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES FOR involve the use of a multinational D’Entrecasteaux Channel have recently AUSTRALIAN ABALONE IN CHINA marketing company. been lifted. The Tasmanian Chief Veterinary I am also pleased to report that Officer, Rod Andrewartha, declared an end substantial progress is being made The project application will shortly be to the Abalone Viral Ganglioneuritus (AVG) in developing a two-year Seafood CRC considered by both the Seafood CRC Emergency Response phase by formally (Co-operative Research Centre) project and Fisheries Research Development revoking the only remaining ‘declaration of that aims to quantify the effectiveness of Corporation (FRDC) Boards. The project restricted area’ at 3pm on Wednesday 11 a range of market development activities will commence in the second half of March 2009. in the China market for all forms of 2009 and be completed in early 2012. It is anticipated that the recommendations It is great news for the Tasmanian products – Australian wild-catch abalone, from the project will be adopted by abalone industry that the AVG emergency including live, canned, frozen and dried. the Australian abalone industry in an response phase has concluded after six This is a marketing/promotional project, ongoing industry promotion strategy that months of intensive sampling and testing, aiming to identify what works; what does may also be rolled out, with appropriate coupled with various restrictions on not; under what conditions; and why. modification, in other abalone consuming fishing and processing activities. A total The Chinese market will remain the most countries. of 1774 abalone tissue samples from important global market for Australian around the Tasmanian coastline were DNA wild-caught abalone for the foreseeable Dean Lisson tested for the virus and all of them were future. However, competition within this Chief Executive negative, enabling the industry to declare important market will intensify greatly – (with a relatively high degree of certainty) the global production of cultured abalone NEW TAC OFFICES that Tasmania’s wild abalone fishery is trebled between 2005 and 2008 and currently free of diseased animals. this growth in competition is to likely The Tasmanian Abalone Council Ltd However, some biosecurity restrictions continue. In order to remain viable and and the Fruit Growers Tasmania Inc will remain in place for the Bass Strait to defend itself from the direct force of are sometimes referred to as the ‘odd and King Island sections of the fishery this competition, it is imperative that the couple’ with the mix of fishing and while AVG continues to exist within the Australian wild-catch industry engage horticulture industries. The joint office Victorian abalone fishery. in a co-ordinated market development partnership has been in place for 13 program to successfully differentiate and and a half years and will continue with The Abalone Biosecurity project being conducted by Dr Judi Marshall (with input from the wild harvest and farming sectors) is expected to be completed later this year. This project has involved an extensive review of biosecurity practices across the Tasmanian abalone industry and will ultimately result in a much more robust system of checks and balances which are all aimed to reduce the risk of pathogen spread. The prevailing view at the moment is that AVG may indeed be endemic within Tasmania’s abalone fishery. It appears likely that the viral DNA may be present at low levels within some pockets of Tasmania’s abalone population. The good news is that it is likely that the Tasmanian abalone population Dean Lisson, CEO TAC, Minister David Llewellyn and Tim Reid, FGT.

12 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > Sector Groups

reviewed extensive scallop survey details The area proposed to be opened is at the on which most new season decisions southern end of the known eastern beds. were to be made. These were provided There will be no trip or period limits and by Dr Jayson Semmens the Scallop the other main known beds in Bass Strait Research Group Leader at TAFI. will be declared no go areas for vessels with a scallop harvester on board in order to protect the stocks for future seasons. BASS STRAIT CENTRAL ZONE TO OPEN For the first time there will be limited AFMA Based on survey results conducted in observer coverage of around ten fishing Bass Strait Commonwealth waters in four days for the whole fleet during the season A new Code of Practice for the Tasmanian phases from 30 October to 18 December to monitor bycatch and any interaction with commercial scallop fishery has been developed 2008 two distinct areas of scallop beds by industry members and is complemented by protected and threatened species. wheelhouse window stickers to identify vessels were located roughly 40 to 60km north that comply with the Code. and north east from the top of Flinders Further limited preseason surveys will be Island. For identification purposes these undertaken in May to confirm the quality their move to more modern and spacious areas were referred to as the western and quantity of scallops in the block to be offices at 262 Argyle Street. Horticulture and eastern beds and, significantly, there opened and the other areas in Bass Strait Australia Limited, Industry Services was a new recruitment identified in the will be resurveyed to monitor progress Manager, Stuart Burgess is also located western bed. Scallops in this area were along with trying to identify possible new within the TAC/FGT offices. quite dense and averaged around 100mm areas such as south of King Island. in size, bearing in mind that the results Port meetings will most likely be held in The office was officially opened in March are based on last year’s surveys. by the Minister for Primary Industries both Lakes Entrance and Launceston prior & Water, Hon David Llewellyn, who The eastern bed, or more appropriately to June to explain the AFMA requirements said that a great example of synergy beds in two larger areas, contained for this season. and co-location is being shown by the scallops averaging around 92mm but TASMANIAN SCALLOP SEASON ON Tasmanian Abalone Council Ltd and Fruit with some sections having relatively high HOLD Growers Tasmania Inc. discard rates. The results of the surveys undertaken by The Minister went on to say that the There has obviously been a significant TAFI in Tasmanian state waters last year abalone and fruit-growing industries are recovery of scallop stocks within the were not as fruitful for this year as in each worth in the order of $100 million BSCZ since the region was closed to Bass Strait, but were nevertheless very at the beach and at the farm gate. Both fishing under a Ministerial Direction in encouraging for future years. the TAC and FGT adopt highly effective, late 2006. The beds identified contain common-sense approaches to challenges scallops around three to four years old. When last surveyed the scallops south of to arrive at successful outcomes for their Most importantly, the high range of Babel Island were undersize with a high respective industries. biomass estimates in the western and discard rate and in Banks Strait there was eastern areas suggest that there are only a smattering of size scallops. The new offices feature impressive exceptionally large amounts of scallops meeting room facilities which are available for commercial harvest for many In the Eddystone deep water the scallops available for hire by contacting Melinda years to come if fished in a paddock style were both under and over 90mm from at the TAC on (03) 6231 1955 or email rotational manner. recruitment in late 2006 but densities [email protected] were poor. The White Rock scallops With this extremely valuable information resulting from a settlement in approx available and, bearing in mind the November 2006 were mainly undersize Tasmanian Scallop requirements contained in the AFMA with quantities surveyed in a limited area Harvest Strategy decision rules and the only being very good indeed. Fishermen’s Association ScallopRAG recommendations, the ScMAC members decided to recommend the After carefully considering all the available NEW SEASON ARRANGEMENTS following to the new AFMA Commission: information ScFAC members decided to BEING PROGRESSED recommend to the Minister that, as there The usual round of meetings took place The BSCZ Commonwealth season should are no known viable beds of scallops that in mid March to consider what action run from 1 June to 31 December 2009 meet the opening criteria, the Tasmanian is necessary to progress the opening with a 3000 tonne TAC, and a 100 tonne season remain closed this year and that of scallop areas during 2009. The TAC for doughboys, in a 75 square nautical the resource be protected for harvest in Commonwealth ScallopMAC meeting was mile area approx 40 km north east of future years. There is however, a need to held in Melbourne on 18 and 19 March the Sister Islands and centred around 39 obtain current stock information and, as and the Tasmanian ScallopFAC meeting 30’S , 148 30’. Ideally there will be some a result, preseason type surveys will be was in Launceston on 20 March. flexibility to extend the open area a couple undertaken probably in May to update the of nautical miles to the north if necessary available information. Members at both meetings discussed in order to take the full TAC. a raft of issues but, most importantly,

13 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > Sector Groups

On another matter the high cost of model. Industry members met with Paul staff have resisted all attempts to bring in scallop fishery management fees and the recently in Hobart and posed a series of tags over the years. way they are charged was discussed at frequently asked questions to him which length by ScFAC members and, while they he will fit into the model. This will be the SEASON TO DATE AND PRICES are appreciative of the level of service first time that industry will have its own provided by DPIW, the overall charges are independent assessment to enable members It looks as though we will be down a small too high, particularly when compared to (especially those who sit on the Crustacean amount on the TAC for this year. At the the Commonwealth and Victorian scallop Advisory Committee) to have access to time of writing the catch was 1443 tonnes. fisheries. unbiased and rigorous information. The crab catch also looks as if it will also be slightly less than last year. Although The Minister will be approached with a the price has fallen at the moment and couple of options which, if accepted, RECREATIONAL REPORTING METHODS catches have been slow, on the whole we may reduce the input cost from industry, I recently met with Minister Llewellyn have seen a year of record prices with particularly for the smaller unit holders. following the TAC reduction for the some fishers receiving up to $70/kg beach 2009/2010 season and raised a number of price at the peak. TASMANIAN SCALLOP CODE OF concerns with him. These included the fact Your fellow fishers in South Australia PRACTICE NOW RELEASED that the commercial sector was expected to received a top price for the season of Prior to last season the TSFA introduced a take a reduction in catch while the number $110/kg and New Zealand operators Scallop Food Safety System for all vessels of participants in the recreational sector is peaked twice at $105/kg during the operating in the scallop fleet and we have allowed to continue to expand unchecked. summer. now printed an industry Code of Practice for Reports from round the State from It looks as though Victoria and South the Tasmanian commercial scallop fishery. commercial fishers are that recreational Australia will not catch their quotas in This eight page booklet produced by activity is reaching saturation levels in some their zones this year, even after reducing TSFA is the result of industry input areas and that large numbers of lobster their respective TACs. In Western Australia and consultation at meetings last year, are being taken, especially by divers. The fishers faced a 15% pot reduction at the along with advice from DPIW and is recreational survey conducted by Jeremy start of the season and the closure of the complimented by a wheelhouse window Lyle some years ago is now out of date. big bank fishery in the North. This pushed a sticker which can be displayed to proudly The information relating to the setting of the significant number of boats into other areas identify vessels that comply with the new recreational TAC at 170 tonnes is no longer of the fishery and a reduction in fishing industry Code of Practice. relevant. The recreational take in 2003 with days to four days a week with one shot a day. They are also faced with a further 15% Copies of the Code of Practice and window its 14,500 participants was around 150 reduction at the end of this season. stickers will be distributed to scallop industry tonnes, but we are being asked to believe members at the first available opportunity. that now, with some 25,000 licensed recreationals, that the catch is still under Bob Lister LOBSTERS FOR CENTROSTEPHANUS the 170 tonne limit. This anomaly cannot CEO PROJECT AT SOUTHERLY BOTTOM be allowed to continue as, by the time the Tasmanian Scallop Fishermen’s Association For fishers interested in supplying large biologists catch up, we will conservatively be 2kg plus lobsters for the above project, the over the 200 tonne mark if we are not there same deal as last year will be offered at already. Tasmanian Rock Lobster this stage. We need 700 thumpers to finish Meanwhile you are expected to bear the this project. For details ring Caleb on (03) Fishermen’s Association brunt of any cutbacks and see your livelihood 6227 7233 or Scott on 0418 376 240. threatened because of a lack of rigorous UPDATE ON FUTURE OPTIONS Rodney Treloggen reporting in one sector of a shared fishery. Chief Executive Officer COMMITTEE MEETINGS Can you imagine how it would look if the The committee held its fourth meeting in commercial fishery ran on a telephone PS A little bird told Fishing Today that February and is well on the way to having a survey and voluntary log book system? It a certain well-known CEO of a certain completed document ready for presentation would be ridiculous, so why is it allowed for organisation took the opportunity to join to the Board and for preliminary discussion the recreationals? in a get fit regime while on holiday abroad at the next round of port visits in early The Minister did give an undertaking to recently. He decided that participation in a May. This will be followed by a presentation look at better reporting methods including a triathlon was a good way to get started. Alas to members at the General Meeting of tagging system for all recreationally-caught our intrepid CEO was disqualified from the the TRLFA to be held in Launceston on lobster. This is something that we have said event after attempting to do the bicycle Thursday 28 May 2009. been seeking for many years and a joint leg of the race in the comfort of a hire car. We are fortunate to have been able to recreational and commercial working group is The international event was apparently secure the services of Dr Paul Breen from to be formed next week to report back to the officially suspended while sheepish CEO was New Zealand to conduct a review on our Minister with its recommendations. However, evicted from the race course. behalf of the current TAFI stock assessment there is a long way to go yet as senior DPIW

14 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > Department News

Review of the Scalefi sh Fishery Management Plan

A major review of Tasmania’s Scalefish recreational fishers ; Matters like wildlife interaction, additional Fishery Management Plan has been • restricting the soak times of gill nets no-netting areas and resource sharing underway since August last year. The to reduce bycatch; between recreational and commercial fishers need a strategic focus that Plan covers both recreational and • changing size and bag limits for will require further investigation and commercial scalefish fishing. calamari, inshore crab, blue eye consultation. More than 400 submissions were trevalla, bastard trumpeter, snapper received and considered by the DPIW to and yellowtail king fish; There has been significant interest in the initial request for public input into • further restricting commercial the proposed changes to the Scalefish issues thought relevant to the review. scalefish fishing at the popular holiday Fishery Management Plan thus far with These submissions, together with areas of Port Sorell and Ansons some robust discussion at the public advice from the Recreational Fisheries Bay to favour recreational fishing meetings. The input from these processes Advisory Committee and the Scalefish opportunities; and will further inform the finalisation of Fishery Advisory Committee have been • a significant suite of measures to the rules that will be considered by the used by the Department in developing manage striped trumpeter. Minister following further advice from both specific proposals for changes to the Fisheries Advisory Committees. The Department of Primary Industries Management Plan. and Water has significant concerns about Copies of the information paper outlining The proposed changes were endorsed by striped trumpeter stocks. the proposed management changes the Minister David Llewellyn and publicly are available from the DPIW at The last detected major spawning event released as an information paper at the www.fishing.tas.gov.au or by request for striped trumpeter was more than a beginning of March to inform a series of from 1300 368 550. decade ago. The risk is that this fishery state-wide public meetings conducted in is riding on the back of a recruitment mid March. peak. A further period in which written The changes recommended to address submissions can be made will close concern with striped trumpeter include at the end of April. Fishers are halving the recreational personal encouraged to familiarise themselves possession limit to four fish, increasing with the proposals and consider making the minimum size limit from 450mm to comments. It is important that support 500mm, introducing a recreation boat for measures is registered as well as limit of 15 fish, cutting the commercial opposition to particular proposals. trip limit from 250kg to 200kg and Changes to the management plan maintaining a seasonal closure around being canvassed through the public September and October to protect the consultation include: optimum spawning period of that species. • introducing a licence for set lines for Some of the proposals canvassed as recreational fishers (i.e. longlines potential issues during the first round of and droplines where the fisher sets public consultation will be progressed the line and leaves it unattended) or through education rather than rule alternatively banning this method for change.

15 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > DPIW News

Clean Up Australia Day – Northern marine farmers doing their bit Pacifi c All users of our marine environment have Of all users, marine farmers probably have a duty of care to others. This is largely the widest range of gear, in the highest built upon making sure that our marine quantity, in or on the water for most of the Seastar environment is safe, clean and enjoyable time, regardless of the conditions. Marine for others to enjoy. Some people enjoy our farmers can’t just pack up their farms and The observation of the Northern waters for lifestyle and residential amenity, wait for good weather before heading out Pacific Seastar (NPS) in large others for commercial return, some for for a day on the water! numbers in Frederick Henry Bay sport, and many just like ‘messing about However, there are three priority things for around Lauderdale during March in boats’ to quote Ratty from ‘Wind in the marine farmers and workers to keep an resulted in considerable community Willows.’ eye on: concern along with interest in the collection and removal of these During the recent Clean Up Australia • make sure marine farm leases are Day, a clean up of targeted shores pests. NPS have been known to exist clearly marked with approved markers in the area since 1995 although local in the D’Entrecasteaux Channel was that are correctly positioned; co-ordinated by a group of recreational residents are certain NPS have never • keep all marine farming gear inside this boat owners. The clean-up effort by about reached the current numbers. marked area; 30 volunteers and twenty recreational An investigation by the Department • quickly retrieve any buoys, ropes or vessels was supported by Tassal, Cascade of Primary Industries and Water has bags that break free or are trailing Brewery and Marine and Safety Tasmania. revealed that claims of dumping outside the lease area. It is worthwhile Approximately five kilometres of coastline can be discounted and that the conducting an extra scan just after on the western side of Bruny Island was occurrence is most likely a natural rough weather. cleared of 100 bags of rubbish. This settlement. Further to this, scientific social and environmental care should be This list is not exhaustive, but by thinking evidence and advice indicate that applauded. It also sends out the challenge and acting continually on these principles, eradication of NPS will not be to other users of the marine environment this will help keep the waterways and possible given the existing population to get out and help clean up – whether it coastline cleaner, and improve safety for range and the reproductive capacity is your rubbish or not. all water users. This is not just the right of the pest. This is generally true thing to do, but is also a requirement The other challenge is to extend this effort of invasive marine pests. There under marine farming management are millions of NPS in the Derwent and awareness so that it is part of day-to- controls contained in marine farming day activity – especially on marine farms. Estuary and already around 100,000 development plans. NPS have been removed as part of the community clean up in Frederick Henry Bay. KETTERING MARINE Manual removal of the pests can result in local and short-term reductions in pest aggregations, and Cheapest in the South accrue the benefit of community awareness and education. The DISCOUNT CHANDLERY community at Lauderdale has • Anti-Foul & Marine Paints (Wattyl, Altex & International) been supported by DPIW through • Engine Oils & Greases • Anodes & Filters advice and permits to participate in • Marine Batteries & Electrical Products collection and removal of the NPS. • Professional Chandlery Supplies • Storage Sheds & Washing Facilities • Gas, Ice & Water DIESEL FUEL

Call Wendy or Doug on: 6267 4727 Mobile: 0437 465 423 Servicing Tasmania’s Fishing Industry

16 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > DPIW News

Rock Lobster Port New mackerel rules approved meetings May 2009 The mackerel (small pelagic) fishery comprises jack mackerel, redbait, and The Tasmanian Rock Lobster Fisherman’s and Fisheries Institute – TAFI) and Rodney blue mackerel, with these species Association (TRLFA) and the Wild Treloggen and John Sansom (TRLFA). being of interest to both commercial Fisheries Management Branch (DPIW) and recreational fishers. The meetings are informal and we will be running its annual series of port Commercial fishing for these species encourage your participation and look meetings with commercial fishers around developed in the mid 1980s with forward to meeting as many industry the State in May. most operations involving purse seine operators as possible. netting in State waters. The fishery The aim of the meetings is to give fishers For more information contact Hilary has continued to evolve and change and processors an opportunity to raise Revill, Wild Fisheries Management with purse seine vessels in the and discuss management, research and Branch, phone (03) 6233 6036 or fishery increasing in size, mid-water industry issues with Hilary Revill (DPIW), Rodney Treloggen (0418 138 768) trawling being introduced to the fishery Caleb Gardener (Tasmanian Aquaculture in Commonwealth waters and the majority of fishing moving into offshore Port Meetings Schedule Commonwealth waters using mid-water trawl fishing methods. Location Date Time Venue Jurisdiction arrangements see Strahan Mon 4 May 9am Strahan Motor Inn Tasmania managing the fishery in State waters and the Commonwealth having jurisdiction in Commonwealth waters. Stanley Mon 4 May 4pm Stanley Seaview Inn While the majority of fishing now occurs in Commonwealth waters, a small scale King Island Tues 5 May 2pm Parers Hotel fishery continues to operate in State waters. Research, global total allowable catch (TAC) setting and development Launceston Wed 6 May 2pm Best Western Abel Tasman of a harvest strategy are being Motor Inn undertaken by Australian Fisheries Management Authority through the Management Advisory Committee Margate Thur 7 May 9am Kingborough Bowls Club, and Resource Assessment Group Channel H’way Margate processes. The fishery in Tasmanian State waters has been regulated under the Fisheries Dover Thurs 7 May 2pm RSL Club, Chapman Ave (Mackerel) Rules 1999. These rules provided a basic framework for licensing of mackerel vessels, the gear Eaglehawk Neck Fri 8 May 9am Lufra Hotel that can be used and where that gear can be used. These rules had a life Triabunna Fri 8 May 2pm Spring Bay Hotel of ten years and therefore had to be renewed. The DPIW has progressed the St Helens Mon 11 May 9am Tidal Waters Resort, development of the new rules with 1 Quail Street stakeholders being consulted on drafts. The process has now been finalised, with the Minister approving the Bicheno Mon 11 May 2pm Beachfront Hotel Fisheries (Mackerel) Rules 2009 on 11 March 2009. Copies of the new rules can be viewed at www.thelaw.tas.gov.au.

17 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 International

news The fishermen’s Producers Organization (PO), which seeks to organise and stabilise by Mary Brewer the fishing industry, concluded it would be ‘too expensive to freeze and stock’ the considerable quantities of scallops FAO RELEASES NEW STATE OF WORLD CHINA TOPS IN GLOBAL SEAFOOD left unsold on the market. The fishermen FISHERIES AND AQUACULTURE OUTPUT were advised to fish fewer, and only high REPORT quality, scallops. As a result, the scallop For the ninth consecutive year, China has fishermen are today working four days a A new FAO report published recently dominated global seafood production, week, instead of a potential six and they stated that fishing industries and national accounting for 67% of the world’s seafood are earning EUR 3 (USD 3.8) a kilo for fisheries authorities must do more to output, according to a recent statement by scallops. understand and prepare for the impacts China’s Ministry of Commerce. that climate change will have on world China now produces 34.43 million tonnes DEEP-SEA FISH STOCKS THREATENED fisheries. According to the latest edition of seafood annually, followed by India, IN NORTH ATLANTIC of the UN agency’s The State of World which represents just 6% of the world’s Commercial fishing in the north-east Fisheries and Aquaculture (SOFIA) report, seafood output. China’s shift toward shrimp Atlantic could be harming deep-sea fish existing responsible fishing practices need production in recent years has elevated it to populations a kilometre below the deepest to be more widely implemented and current be the number one global seafood producer. reach of fishing trawlers, according management plans should be expanded to In per capita seafood consumption worldwide, to a 25-year study published recently include strategies for coping with climate shrimp is far ahead of other seafood items by Dr David Bailey of the University of change. such as tuna, salmon and pollock. Glasgow. Scientists have long known that Kevern Cochrane, one of SOFIA’s authors, In 2008, China exported nearly 3 million commercial fishing affects deep-water claims fisheries and aquaculture make tonnes of seafood worth USD 10 billion (EUR fish numbers, but its effects appear a minor but significant contribution to 7.4 billion), accounting for 25% of its total to be felt twice as deep as previously greenhouse gas emissions during fishing aquaculture and agriculture exports. China’s thought. Populations of north-east Atlantic operations and transport, processing and Ministry of Agriculture has warned that 2009 commercial deep-water fish such as storage of fish, with an average ratio of will be a tough year for the seafood industry black scabbardfish, orange roughy and fuel to carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions as a result of the global financial crisis. roundnose grenadier have dwindled since for capture fisheries estimated at about 3 In comparison, Canada’s Fishery Minister deep-water fishing started in the area in teragrams of CO2 per million tonnes of fuel reported that Canadian seafood exports have the late 1980s, but it wasn’t until 2003 used. climbed to $CA 3.9 billion last year, with that catch quotas were recommended. ‘Compared to actual fishing operations, lobster, crab, salmon and shrimp accounting Researchers started mapping the emissions per kilogram of post-harvest for 65% of exports by value. distribution of deep-water fish on the aquatic products transported by air are Global aquaculture production has grown slopes off the west coast of Ireland in quite high,’ SOFIA adds. Intercontinental 45% since 2000. 1977 and continued recording species airfreight emits 8.5kg of CO2 per kilogram over an 11-year period until 1989 – before Meanwhile export earnings in the aquaculture of fish transported. This is about 3.5 times any fishery was established in the region. sector in New Zealand grew by 17% last that for sea freight and more than 90 times They then mapped the slopes again from year to more than $265 million despite a that from local transportation of fish where 1997 until 2002 using the same ships smaller harvest of some farmed fish species. it is consumed within 400 kilometres of and the same fishing methods to get a Aquaculture New Zealand Chief Executive catch. consistent data set. They unexpectedly Mike Burrell said the 2008 earnings were found that deep-sea fish numbers down Total world fisheries production reached the highest ever, with King salmon earnings to 2500 metres – a kilometre below the a new high of 143.6 million tonnes in increasing 22% on the previous year. Export deepest reach of fishing trawlers – were 2006 (92 million tonnes capture fisheries, weights for greenshell mussel and oyster lower in the later 1997 to 2002 period. Not 51.7 million tonnes aquaculture). Of that, harvests were down slightly. He says demand only this, but target species and non-target 110.4 million tonnes was used for human for seafood is growing and fish farming is species were both affected and in much consumption, with the remainder going to meeting an increasing amount of that demand. deeper parts of the ocean. Numbers of one non-food uses (livestock feed, fishmeal species of eel have dropped by half. for aquaculture). The production increases came from the aquaculture sector, which FRENCH SCALLOPS THROWN AWAY Most deep-water trawlers harvest down now accounts for 47% of all fish consumed Hit by the economic crisis and a saturated to 1600 metres and target relatively few by humans as food. Production in capture market in Spain, which is Europe’s biggest species, such as roundnose grenadier and fisheries has levelled off and is not likely to consumer of seafood and a major importer orange roughy and unwanted species are increase beyond current levels. of French scallops, the fishermen in Northern discarded. These can make up around 50% of the catch and because of the extreme For more information go to www.fao.org France’s Normandy region threw away 40 tons of scallops during March. change in pressure and temperature

18 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > International News

when they are brought to the surface, during harvesting, instead of pulling TUNA CONSERVATION none of these will survive. This explains in many single individual ropes, the A new organisation is to be created why the study has shown a decrease continuous loops can be drawn aboard to bring agreement among global tuna in abundance of target and non-target the collection vessel and through the companies to promote tuna conservation species. Each deep-water species has a harvesting machine almost automatically. by pushing all regional management defined depth range and very often the In New Zealand this system has proved bodies to use sound science. juveniles live at depths shallower than a fast and effective harvesting method, the adults. Therefore removal of fish ensuring a consistent product with a Meanwhile Japan has scrapped 20% of by commercial trawling down to 1600 minimal loss of shells. its tuna fleet with compensation being metres is likely to affect populations in paid to crewmembers and boat owners. deeper waters. SAUDIS PLAN $200M PEARL FARM, This follows an international agreement FUEL PLANT IN WA to a reduction in the size of bluefin tuna SCOTTISH MUSSEL FARM TRIALS A Saudi Arabian company, Technology catches in the Atlantic Ocean and bigeye NEW CULTIVATION SYSTEM System Trading (TST) plans to invest $200 tuna catches in the mid-western Pacific A West Highland shellfish farm is trialling million in WA to create a huge pearl farm Ocean. a new cultivation technique for mussels and biodiesel production plant off the that has been successfully pioneered coast at Port Hedland, which will harvest MALAYSIAN FISHERMAN USES WWII in New Zealand using the ‘continuous millions of pearls and make 400,000 BOMB AS ANCHOR rope’ system, which has the potential to tonnes of algae-derived fuel a year. make the complex harvesting operation Local police in the southern Johor state in The majority of the pearls and shell Malaysia made a shocking discovery during more efficient. Current methods use meats produced would be exported to single ropes or fabric, suspended in a routine patrol in a fishing village when Asian markets. TST also plans to set they found a fisherman had been using a the water by heavy horizontal ropes up a similar operation in the Kimberley, and flotation buoys. The new system deadly World War II bomb as an anchor for according to the company’s Director- his boat. The fisherman had been using involves continuous loops of special rope General Badr Walid. hanging down from the heavy horizontal the bomb for several months and thought ones, the total length of which can be it was safe on account of its age! up to 14 kilometres. This means that

SeaNet is back by Fiona Ewing In the February/March 2009 edition of • Code of Best Practice for the Tasmanian Fishing Today, I wrote to let you know Danish Seine Fishery that the SeaNet Program in Tasmania • Environmental Self Assessment Tool for (and nationally) has been re-funded until the Commercial Dive Fishery. November this year through the Caring for These documents are available from TSIC Fiona Ewing our Country Open Grants Program. At the or me on request. Another project that did time of writing, I have been back in the not reach completion during my previous job for three weeks and, after being out time as the SeaNet Officer included a Code country. This includes a guide to Introduced of the industry for six months, it’s great of Practice for Mitigating the Interaction Marine Pests relevant to Tasmania, as well to be looking at the issues with a fresh between Seals and Commercial Fishing as an informational DVD and posters and perspective. Operations. This document is in a working pamphlets. It seems timely to fill you in on where we draft format. I will be talking to scalefishers TSIC are kindly supporting the SeaNet got up to last time. and other interested stakeholders and project by hosting my position at their office asking for their contributions to this as I in Sandy Bay again as well as providing In the 18 months of the SeaNet program travel around the State. I know that the strategic direction to the position via a from February 2007 to August 2008 in seal issue is a contentious one, fraught state-based ‘Reference group’ (which also conjunction with TSIC, DPIW, TAFI, NRM with pitfalls, but I do urge interested includes a representative from DPIW and groups and relevant industry members, parties to participate in the development of TAFI) and giving day-to-day advice (thanks we achieved completion of the following this document as the only way forward is Stumpy and Emily). projects: for the industry to be pro-active. For further information about SeaNet and • Code of Best Practice for the Tasmanian Other business to complete as soon as its activities, visit our website at Scallop Fishery possible is the rollout of the National www.oceanwatch.org.au, • Code of Best Practice for the Tasmanian Marine Pest Strategy to industry around the or call me on 0407 135 637. Commercial Dive Fishery

19 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > Seataste

TSIC at the Wooden Boat Festival 2009 by Amanda Way

Although the long weekend in February to ask questions and rave about the Friday saw competition begin with John encompassed all four Tasmanian product. Cooking demonstrations each Hammond triumphing over well-known seasons, the 2009 Australian Wooden day by Sean Dunn using salmon products chef Waji with his lightly spiced cream Boat Festival was still a great success. kept the audience interested during the sauce scallops. Waji created an Asian- Madi Peattie from Mad Events, Emily Ogier setup process. inspired dish with his ingredients. our Project Officer from TSIC and I put I also have to mention that there were Neville Perryman created a caramelised our heads together late last year to bring several VERY nervous people stepping lemon zest, butter, wine, lemongrass a strong seafood industry presence and onto the stage who ended up shining reduction with pan fried blue eye trevalla a bit of fun to the Festival. The Ocean to and even surprising themselves with which won over Dave Lamb’s coriander Plate Food Theatre was the foundation for how comfortable they felt once they and ginger broth with poached blue eye. our industry project, with the main goal of had started. The crowd joined in with Dave Lamb is the chef at The Cornelian educating consumers about our wonderful questions and enjoyed the friendly rivalry Bay Boathouse Restaurant. array of fresh Tasmanian seafoods, and that occurred between the chefs, but On the Saturday Paul Foreman, the chef create an opportunity to learn from the the biggest hit by far was the quality of industry itself. at Marque IV, was pitted against Alan the food plated up by not only our chefs House from Freycinet Marine Farm with And so the Seafood Industry Iron Chef but our industry reps. This I can assure their oyster creations. The audience Cook Off was born! But was it possible to you was lapped up eagerly by hundreds judges preferred Alan’s salsa over Paul’s coax some of our already time-stretched of people over the four days with a mini oysters cooked in a coconut, lime juice, and overworked industry personalities stampede occurring after each segment. coriander and kaffir lime broth/sauce. onto a stage and attach them to a Each time, I picked out two people from microphone to have a cook off with some the crowd to be our judges. This proved Meanwhile Rodney Treloggen was of Tasmania’s finest chefs? quite the hit, but also a little hazardous preparing himself for the big competition as, after the judges’ verdict was handed against Dave Lamb. Creating a rich What can I say, but a huge thank you to down, it was a free-for-all for the rest of creamy, bacon, mustard, home-style all who took my telephone calls and the public! sauce with diced lobster pieces, Rodney emails. Yes, there was some confusion until right up until the first day; however, when you are dealing with an inaugural event, you will always be ironing out the flaws, even up until the end, and I thank them for their patience. What an incredibly entertaining time we had. Our industry rep had to banter with their opponent, cook the product, talk about their respective industry AND answer questions from the crowd and me. There were several problems for our first few segments – such as lighting with the TV monitor and the lack of any decent table covers – but they were quickly sorted. Well, maybe not the TV monitor, but that was Mother Nature’s fault. Several segments were also washed out, but we soldiered on during the downpour with people sheltering up under our small alcove. However, when the hot plates of steaming scallops came out, our rain- drenched, diehard consumers were there

20 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > Seataste

won the judges’ approval over Dave’s To complete the day wine expert Andrew Information Marquee and many other version of chilli crab with its spicy lobster Hatherly from David Johnston and roles over those four days of the festival. served in shell pieces. Associates explained the best wines to Watch this space as 2011 will be even complement the seafood dishes. On Sunday the weather was still windy better. We are already working on a fully- but the rain held off for most of the day. On Monday Phil Lamb competed with his covered, all-weather setup for the next On the stage again, Rodney Treloggen Pernod mussels against both Waji and Paul event. And of course decent table cloths! pitched up against Paul Foreman to cook Foreman. Paul once again had a surprise his special rock lobster dish. Paul utilised ingredient – a chirizo he sneaked in! He a special secret ingredient smuggled into combined this with tomato, lemon, cream the competition to create a bennito stock and chilli oil to create a broth. Waji made which gave his lobster a more aromatic his mussels into a laksa and also cooked seafood taste. The judges simply could mussels in verjuice. Believe it or not, the not agree but the crowd didn’t care – I competition was a draw. have never seen food disappear so fast. I would like to say a very big thank you Another exciting fight to the death took to everyone who took part in this event, place between Phil Lamb from Spring Bay especially to the people who travelled to Seafoods and Jane Dyke, a freelance Hobart from all over the State. It would chef based on the east coast; she is not have been a success without you. It also an oyster farmer from Oyster Bay would also not have happened without the Oysters. Phil’s Pernod mussels were to wonderful support team, particularly Emily die for. Jane created Thai green curry Ogier – what an outstanding job she did mussels for the competition and then with every segment, having to clean up in delighted the crowd by providing sushi difficult weather conditions; taking down the mussels, grilled mussels with smoked setup at the end of every day (as it was a cheese and a salsa. However, the judges working music theatre at night), only to have again could not decide on the best dish to setup again the next morning. Well done, and the audience decided that both were Emily! Thanks also go to Neil, Julie and delicious. Mary for their work in ‘manning’ the TSIC

21 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > Profile: Joey McKibben

Young leaders in the making by Mary Brewer

He also joined the Board of the Joey McKibben inspire them to consider a career in the Tasmanian Abalone Council in 2008 as Was it destiny or was it planned? The seafood industry. the Divers Sub Council Chair. This really transition from builder to abalone diver was a baptism of fire as two weeks after One of the biggest limiting factors in the was perhaps inevitable for Joey McKibben he was appointed, the AVG virus scare seafood industry in 2008 was the price as he had always planned to follow in his erupted. He was away diving at the time of fuel. For Joey it has been a major cost Dad Scott’s footsteps. of its discovery and knew nothing of it, factor – up until recently $150 a day. Born in Geeveston and going to the local so when he returned home and found But, by using a smaller 15’ dinghy he cut school engendered in Joey a love for 58 messages on his phone he knew this back to $30 a day. He also shares a Tasmania that has never gone away. So something was wrong. Joey believes sharkcat from time to time with another that after a stint at school in Melbourne that the situation was very well handled diver to cut costs. This way he finds he and a few years in Queensland as a both by the TAC and by the DPIW, though has to work harder to catch as much, builder, it wasn’t difficult to return to everyone was affected by the restrictions. but it is safer to dive with someone else. Asked how he feels about going with his home state. He finds that his role on the TAC Board someone who can come to his aid if he involves a fair bit of mediation, so it is He had spent some time as a teenager was in trouble, Joey’s comment was that good to be independent and not take as a deckhand for Scott during the school he had always felt it was the other bloke sides in any issues to be resolved. holidays and six months after Year 12, so who would be the shark bait not him! he had an idea of the hard work involved Another reason for going on the TAC However, diving is tough on the body in abalone diving. Then, when he decided Board was to have a better understanding especially the joints when you can be to return to Tasmania in 2006, he spent a of what goes on after the abalone has tossed around by the swell or thrown on year as a deckhand learning the best way left the state. The quality of fish is an to rocks. Joey admits that diving for five to operate in the industry. issue with both processors and buyers, hours at a time for three to five days in a so divers have to be very careful that Joey loves diving and finds no two days row is tiring so I asked him what he does they bring up good quality fish and they are ever the same. It clears your head a to keep fit. He used to play Aussie rules meet the requirements of the market. lot, he says, and the day just seems to until he was 17 when he had to have his Unfortunately the two are not always one disappear. He often cannot believe he shoulder reconstructed twice in the same and the same. At least quality of the fish has been underwater as long as he has year. After two more operations he can no is now a priority. In the old days abalone in a day. His love of diving is tempered longer play footy, but he has just taken would be thrown onto the back of a truck by his inability to cope with seasickness up golf, although he finds that just a little without refrigeration, but now after three on the surface, but he is hoping it will frustrating. hours working you have to unload the pass as time goes on. Another downside abalone so they don’t get too hot in the Joey loves bushwalking and mountain is putting on your wetsuit in the freezing sun. It may be you have to work longer to climbing, and has climbed overseas in cold of winter. get the same quantity, but the quality is both Nepal and South America. He came into the industry at an much better. In February 2006 Joey joined his father interesting time, with finding sufficient During the year Joey went to an Abalone Scott to fly into Mendoza in Argentina, quota one of his biggest problems. He Convention in Port Lincoln, SA which which is the closest town to the 7,000m doesn’t know how he would have started looked at every aspect of the industry high Mt Aconagua. Located in the Andes in the industry if his parents had not and provided an interesting comparison mountain range, this is the highest been able to help him out. between states. Joey came away with mountain both in the Americas and Last year was a huge learning curve for the conviction that we all need to outside Asia, as well as the Southern Joey. He caught a third of his catch in the do everything we can to protect the Hemisphere. It is one of the Seven last six weeks of 2008, with the beach industry. Summits which incorporate the highest peaks on each of the seven continents. price having dropped by $12 as the In October last year Joey helped out Chinese buyers knew how much quota with the Marine Careers Sessions held They enjoyed some fantastic cheap food was available. This is something he will in conjunction with TSIC and Seafood in Mendoza, the beef, as you would not repeat. Training Tasmania. He really enjoyed expect, being particularly good. After a talking to the students and helping to few days there they began a period of

22 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > Profile: Bryan Denny

High School. She spent three days Always interested in having a hands-on looking for him until the blokes at the role in the industry, Bryan wanted to help local fish factory told her he had gone fix some of its problems, so he became to sea. She should have known, Bryan President of the Tasmanian Commercial maintains, as he had been telling her for Divers Association (TCDA) in April 2008. years that the day he left school he was He hopes that he can change the going fishing. He was just 15. perception of the dive fishery, which, at Bryan had spent some time in the school the moment, is really only part time for holidays going out as a deckie for some about 15 divers. As there are no local acclimatisation. This involved walking ab divers and he had no interest in doing processors for periwinkles, about 90% both up and down the lower levels of anything else. Mind you, it was a bit hard of the catch goes to Sydney and the rest the mountain to try to avoid altitude to wag school with his Mum there every to Melbourne, so it is not a highly value- sickness, which affects most climbers to day knowing what he was up to. But he added product. With the fishery being some extent as the atmospheric pressure didn’t waste his opportunities and spent managed under a precautionary approach is only 40% of sea level at the summit. three months each year at the Australian Bryan would like to see some research being done into the distribution of the The mountain has a number of glaciers, Maritime College which, when combined periwinkles and to build an economically- and unfortunately during this period of with his sea time, gave him his skippers viable, environmentally-sustainable fishery acclimitisation Joey’s mild frostbite to ticket by the time he was 19. for the future. Bryan sees that, with good his feet and altitude sickness meant he After six years on crayboats Bryan co-management, periwinkles could be sold didn’t make it to the top. changed course for a while and worked to boutique markets at a good price. Far more enjoyable was a twelve-day with Tassal and HAC in their early years, Bryan has also been active in trying to trek around some of the small villages skippering boats and doing just about get a processor from NSW interested in in Nepal during April 2001. The scenery everything around the fish farms. But the the centrostephanus market, which he was amazing and the village life was lure of the open sea drew Bryan back to believes has huge potential. He would like fascinating. cray fishing and it wasn’t until 1996 that he started as a deckhand for an abalone to see introduced pests/species included So what challenges does he see for diver. During that time he skippered boats in a formal management plan. himself in the future? He enjoys his role for Marine Constructions and then with With an AGM for the TCDA to be held on with TAC and is keen to facilitate greater Mures for a while. 8 May, Bryan is hoping to start creating co-operation between groups. He is also a strategic plan for the TCDA which keen on market branding for Tasmanian Bryan then decided to start diving for will in turn generate a business case abalone – we produce 25% of the world’s periwinkles and sea urchins so he leased for developing and expanding new and abalone and we should be proud of the the ‘Ocean Raider’ from the Hurseys. He existing markets for divers. product and use it as a marketing tool. would go off to the south coast by himself He also recently joined the Abalone FAC and fish in what was a very formative These are some of the reasons that where he hopes to make a contribution. industry at the time. Bryan applied for and was awarded a place in the National Seafood Industry Joey has been selected to attend the However, Bryan had married Robyn by Leadership Training Program in 2009. National Seafood Industry Leadership then and they thought they could have a Having just arrived home from the first Program 2009 (NSILP 09). This is a better life on the mainland. The first job phase of the Program when I caught prestigious, highly-regarded and very Bryan picked up was as First Mate on a up with him, Bryan was still feeling a beneficial program which is endorsed shark boat in the Gulf of Carpentaria, but bit overwhelmed by it, describing it as by the FRDC to strengthen leadership he was at sea for three months without a ‘brain drain.’ He reckons you have to capacity amongst representatives of the a break, so he and Robyn moved to Mt be pretty switched on to take it all in as seafood industry. The program started in Isa where he got a job as a storeman in the days start early and end very late. Port Lincoln in mid March, and concludes Retravision. Again this didn’t work out and However, the skills he hopes to achieve with a session in Canberra in September. they both headed back to Hobart in March far outweigh the disadvantages. He More on this later. . . 2003. is hoping to gain far more confidence By July of the same year Bryan was back in managing meetings, gain insights abalone diving, thanks to some of the Bryan Denny into governance issues, the role of old hands who gave him the opportunity The day Bryan Denny left high school he government and the art of lobbying, and to break into the industry. By working dumped his school books in the closest develop business management skills. constantly Bryan was able to buy his rubbish bin and jumped on the nearest With two more sessions to go, Bryan boat, the sixty-foot ‘Motunui’ in November crayboat for a fishing trip. Unfortunately is determined to make a go of the 2005, and he hasn’t looked back. He he forgot to tell his Mum, who was a opportunity. Given his favourite footy team currently goes fishing with seven others to teacher at his school, the Dover District is Collingwood, I think he probably has spread their costs. plenty of determination to see it through.

23 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > TAFI News

Launch of a Marine Nation: National Framework for Marine Research and

Innovation by Professor Colin Buxton

The Minister for Innovation, Industry, • a national approach: Australia needs to provide for new human Science and Research, the Hon Senator needs a renewed, strengthened and capability through better co-ordination, Kim Carr, launched A Marine Nation on 17 cohesive national approach to marine linkages and investment; March in Canberra. research and innovation, through more • infrastructure investment: Australia The National Framework has been effective co-ordination and increased needs new investment in marine formulated by the Oceans Policy Science investment; research and innovation infrastructure, Advisory Group (OPSAG) as a way to • industry engagement: Supporting the particularly national research vessel co-ordinate effort in marine science, growth and development of Australian capability; new technologies and technology and innovation and identify marine industries requires strong remote sensing; ocean and coastal priority needs, to position Australia for and expanded engagement between monitoring; and improved data future growth. industry and marine research and management and access; and Last April the United Nations Commission innovation providers; • policy interface: A new and more on the Limits of the Continental Shelf • skills: Australian marine science efficient policy interface is needed at extended Australia’s marine jurisdiction to suffers from acute shortages of skilled all levels of government, guided by a become the third largest in the world. That, marine scientists and technologists, national steering committee for marine combined with the strong association of the compounded by the lack of career research and innovation. Australian people to the sea, means we can pathways for early career researchers; The document can be downloaded justly claim to be a Marine Nation. • co-ordination and linkages: Australian at www.opsag.org/pdf/opsag-marine- Prompted by this vast increase in education and training in marine nation-01.pdf. our marine realm, and mindful of the science, technology and innovation recommendations of the Review of the National Innovation System by Terry Cutler, OPSAG formulated a co-ordinated and integrated policy paper which identifies the research, development and innovation needed by government, industry and the community to develop Australia’s marine assets. The Framework advocates a renewed national effort in marine science through nationally co-ordinated research involving all marine science providers and users. It identifies the following issues as central to the implementation of a workable Senator Kim Carr and members of the OPSAG steering group at the launch of a Marine Nation. L to R: plan for marine science, innovation and Professor Colin Buxton from the Tasmanian Aquaculture and Fisheries Institute at the University of Tasmania, Dr Ian Poiner from AIMS, Dr Clinton Foster from Geoscience Australia, Dr Neville Smith from the Bureau of industry: Meteorology, Senator Carr, Dr John Gunn from the Australian Antarctic Division and Dr Greg Ayers of CSIRO Marine and Atmospherics Division. Photo courtesy of Steve Clarke, AIMS.

24 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > TAFI News

TAFI tagging update Figure 1. The new blue T-bar tag showing the words TAFI RESEARCH ILLEGAL TO TAKE

BLUE TAG MARKING Research lobsters used to study urchin barren are now being marked with blue tags. Two research sites are being stocked with large lobsters to test whether they can control the spread of sea urchin barrens. As reported in previous issues of Fishing Today, urchins are a threat to our fisheries and this experiment will help in understanding the threat and methods that may be used to manage the problem. Note that it is illegal to take the specially marked lobsters being used in the experiment: they must be returned to the water immediately. We are therefore introducing a new blue tag for these lobsters to signify they are part of the urchin control Figure 2. Identifying marks on large lobsters translocated as part of the Centrostephanus research include two holes punched in the tail fan (left) and coloured dye marks and new blue T-bar tag under the tail (right). experiment (see Figure 1). Lobsters with blue tags will only be found in and around the research sites at Elephant Rock near St Helens and at North Figure 3. Existing yellow, white and red T-bar tags used as part of research on growth and movement of lobsters in Tasmanian Bay on the Forestier Peninsula. Lobsters waters. Lobsters with yellow, white and red tags are allowed to be for these experiments are also marked taken providing they meet legal minimum size. with holes punched in the tail and injected dye in the tail muscle (see Figure 2). Lobsters tagged with any other colour tag (white, red, or yellow – see Figure 3) can be captured and retained as Summer Prize Winners normal, provided they are of legal size, This summer season has seen a great response from all our rock lobster fishers. Tag returns not carrying eggs and in season. Please have been flooding in from around the state, with the main holiday destinations such as report captures of these animals to TAFI. Bicheno and St Helens well represented. Please send your tag information to: Tag returns from rock lobsters are vital for managing the fishery, with the main uses including Lobster tags measuring changes in the catchability of lobsters, changes in growth and stock size. TAFI All tag returns are placed in our tag lottery with the chance to win great prizes. There is no Private Bag 49 limit on entries, so the more times you enter the more chance you have to win! Hobart 7001 Or email details to [email protected] Winners for the February bi-monthly draw are: For more information, please phone Karl Krause of Riverside – $200 Kylie Cahill on (03) 6227 7252. Bill Tober of Portland, Victoria ¬ $100 www.tafi.org.au Chris Parker of Geilston Bay – $50.

25 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > TAFI News

east coast are now largely recruitment- driven with only a small proportion of the catch made up by older fish. Current catch levels are likely to continue to reduce spawning biomass, even though stocks are now more productive (faster individual growth and earlier maturity of females) than at the start of the fishery. Although the fishery in the south-east has profited from strong recruitment in recent The state of the Tasmanian years, we believe a reduction of fishing pressure is advisable in all regions so that populations are able to rebuild. This scalefi sh fi shery 2007-08 will increase the resilience of the stock and reduce the risk of stock decline in by Philippe Ziegler, Jeremy Lyle, Caleb Gardner and Colin Buxton, periods of low recruitment. The 2007 TAFI Marine Research Laboratories assessment model predicts a less than 50% probability that mature biomass and catch rates will be maintained at current levels for an east coast catch of 20 The Tasmanian scalefish fishery is (-14 tonnes), barracouta (-13 tonnes), tonnes (less than half of the 44.5t TAC assessed each year using information garfish (-20 tonnes), wrasse (-27 tonnes) approved for 2009/10). from the logbook returns of Tasmanian and striped trumpeter (-7 tonnes). All The 84 tonne catch of calamari was and Commonwealth commercial fishers. were at record low levels in 2007/08. similar to 2006/07, although catch and The only detailed analysis of recreational Only flathead (+14 tonnes), jack mackerel effort were reduced in Great Oyster Bay scalefish catches currently available is (+199 tonnes) and redbait (+298 tonnes) and the south-east, possibly in response that from the 2000/01 National Survey. experienced significant increases. to lower catch rates. There is considerable However, a state-wide recreational Catches of all other scalefish species uncertainty about stock status which is fishing survey was undertaken during were within ± 10 tonnes of 2006/2007 highly variable between years due to the 2007/2008 and this information, which levels. Cephalopod catches were stable dependence on an annual recruitment. is currently being analysed, will provide a for southern calamari and octopus, but Nevertheless, the extended closure of better understanding of this activity. declined strongly for the sporadically the major spawning grounds appears to occurring Gould’s squid (-648 tonnes). Since 2000 there has been a general be effective in protecting the main known decline in the number of commercial For banded morwong, the 2007/2008 spawning event. Scalefish licences (A, B and C) issued, catch of 51 tonnes was similar to that The combined commercial Tasmanian from 461 to 355 in 2007, due mainly from the previous year, with increases and Commonwealth catch for striped to a reduction in the number Scalefish in the Bicheno and north-east region trumpeter of 16 tonnes was the lowest C licences. Over the same period, the compensated by decreases around Maria on record. The trip limit of 250 kg number of active licences has also Island and the Tasman Peninsula. A total introduced in 2000 has represented a declined, from 238 to 185 licences in of 46.8 tonnes was caught within the strong disincentive for some operators 2007, indicating significant latent effort designated TACC area between Low Head to fish for the species and appears to still exists in the fishery. on the north coast and Whale Head in have strongly contributed to the fall in the south. After increases in previous Total annual commercial catches have dropline and handline catches since years, catch rates stabilised at a lower generally been in decline since the early 2000/2001. In contrast, recreational level in the Tasman region, but continued 1990s, from over 2000 tonnes to around fishing activity targeting the species has to drop in the Maria Island region. In the 1000 tonnes in recent years. Against almost certainly increased in recent Bicheno and St Helens regions catch this trend, the 2007/2008 scalefish years, and catches taken by recreational rates have shown signs of a recent catch of 1048 tonnes was substantially fishers and from charter boats are now recovery. Seal interference remains a higher compared to 2006/2007, likely to be the dominant source of major problem for banded morwong primarily due to about 500 tonnes of fishing mortality. Fish stocks are likely fishers. jack mackerel and redbait caught by to be depleted and expected to decline purse seine in State waters. For most The stock assessment model was not further as a consequence of apparently other species, downward catch trends updated, but the 2007 assessment poor recruitment over the past 15 years. continued, including Australian salmon indicated that the fish stocks on the Besides introducing the new spawning season closures in 2009, there

26 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > TAFI News

availability since the early 2000s, the from Commonwealth waters, with the species has been rarely targeted. The tiger flathead stock classified as not 2007/2008 catch of 25 tonnes was overfished. Sand flathead stock status similar to that for the previous year and is not known, though clearly the main remains a need to reduce overall fishing low compared to the catches reported impact on stocks is from the recreational mortality and increase the minimum size during the 1990s. Management action for sector. limit to above the size at maturity. stock rebuilding of the major component The current review of the Scalefish Bastard trumpeter is taken primarily of the blue warehou fishery has been Fishery is timely as the trends in many as by-product rather than as a target implemented in the Commonwealth fishery. of the species taken in this fishery are species, and catches have been The commercial catch of Australian salmon of concern. We believe that more careful low for several years (19 tonnes in dropped to 101 tonnes in 2007/2008 management of several of our iconic 2007/2008). The stock status is and was the lowest on record. While fish species is needed if the long-term future uncertain but potentially depleted due to availability may have been affected by of this fishery is to be secured. past overfishing coupled with apparent unusually warm winter waters, commercial Furthermore, in the recreational fishery poor recruitment in recent years. We catches are strongly determined by market management needs to be assessed in recommend that fishing mortality should demand and the decline in catch is not terms of modern recreational fishing be limited through commercial trip interpreted as a stock problem. policy worldwide, which is to maximise limits and a reduction of recreational Recent fluctuations in catches of flathead the experience, to take only what you possession limits. (74 tonnes in 2007/2008) have been need and/or to take only a feed of fish. Catches of garfish have fallen strongly largely caused by switches in targeting In Tasmania a recreational catch limit of over the last two years, from 89 tonnes by Danish seine operators between tiger eight or sometimes ten fish per person of in 2005/2006 to just 30 tonnes in flathead and whiting. Handline catches large species appears to contradict the 20007/2008. This decline, experienced targeting sand flathead are much smaller spirit of recreational fishing. by both of the main fishing methods and have remained stable since the For further information contact Philippe (beach seine and dipnets) and in all mid 1990s. While stock status of both Ziegler on (03) 6227 7209 or pziegler@ major fishing regions, appears to be key flathead species in State waters is utas.edu.au. A copy of the 2007/2008 caused by a general lack of resource unknown, commercial catches of tiger Assessment Report can be downloaded availability. The reason for this reduction flathead have been maintained at higher from www.tafi.org.au. in availability after a long period of levels in the past. Significant trawl relative stability in catches remains catches of tiger flathead are also taken unclear. While a biological sampling program has been implemented, management options should be considered that limit expansion in this fishery until more is known about the stock dynamics. Since 1995/1996, wrasse catches have Over a million people in Australia been relatively stable and consistently higher than 70 tonnes. After reaching live with depression. 113 tonnes in 2006/2007, reported catches fell to 85 tonnes in 2007/2008. Minimum size limits provide considerable With the right treatment, most people recover. protection to purple wrasse and female blue-throat wrasse, but not to male blue- Find out about depression, what to do about it throat wrasse which derive from mature females after a sex change, typically at and how to help someone at www.beyondblue.org.au sizes after they have entered the fishery. or phone 1300 22 4636 The stock status is unknown though the two species are vulnerable to localised depletion of legal-size biomass which For counselling or urgent assistance, has an economic rather than resource call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or sustainability impact. Mensline Australia on 1300 78 99 78 Blue warehou occur sporadically in Tasmanian inshore waters. Due to low

27 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > TAFI News

Have you seen any adult eastern lobsters in your catch? by Arthur Ritar

We are looking for live adult eastern rock these animals has now grown to 2.5kg experiments. Therefore, if you catch lobsters, in good condition, like those (180mm carapace length) and a berried one or more of these adult eastern rock in the photograph. If you catch them, female can produce more than 750,000 lobsters, especially large ones, we would please let us know as we are keen to buy larvae. Only a fraction of these larvae appreciate the opportunity to buy them to them from you for our research program. are needed for the TAFI research but it is add to our breeding stock important to have enough adult females They are needed to increase the genetic For more information, contact Associate hatching out on different occasions to diversity of our breeding stocks at the Professor Arthur Ritar on (03) 6227 7294 ensure that we can undertake all our TAFI Marine Research Labs, where we are or email [email protected] conducting research on hatchery rearing for aquaculture. Eastern rock lobsters are also called ‘green’ or ‘packhorse’ rock lobsters and their taxonomic name is Jasus verreauxi. They differ from other Jasus species, which are all red, including our own southern rock lobster, Jasus edwardsii. Eastern rock lobsters settle in Tasmanian waters from time to time and have been found as far south as Maatsuyker Island as well as along the west coast. However, they are not thought to breed locally. In fact, the only known breeding populations in Australia are found toward the continental shelf off the northern coast of New South Wales. If anyone has seen breeding animals (that is, carrying eggs) in Tasmania, please let us know. The TAFI breeding population originated from animals settled as pueruli on the east coast before 2001. The largest of The two species found in Tasmania, centre left and on the right, are the green eastern rock lobster (Sagmariasus verreauxi) and left and centre right the red southern rock lobster (Jasus edwardsii).

28 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > TAFI News

Sloop Rock ST HELENS IS SLOOP ROCK Assessment of management St Helens St Helens Is NO CULL ZONE

options to minimise NO CULL ZONE

KEY formation of ‘barrens’ Reef CULL ZONE Sand 5m contours

ZONE BOUNDARY

habitat by the long-spined

Wineglass Bay TRUMPETER BAY WINEGLASS BAY

NO sea urchin (Centrostephanus CULL ZONE

Trumpeter Bay Schouten Island rodgersii) in Tasmania CULL ZONE

KEY This project essentially addresses three Area 1: Maria Island Reef Sand questions: Cull Site: East Bunker 5m contours

Bay (Maria Island) ZONE BOUNDARY 1. Can abalone divers culling sea urchins Reference Site: while fishing ensure local control of Mistaken Cape and Northern side of Bunker Bay sea urchins? This is the ’Protect your Maria Mistaken Figure showing the ‘cull’ and ‘no Mistaken Cape Island Cape Figure showing the ‘cull’ and ‘no Patch‘ component of the project. cull’cull’ areas areas forfor thethe ‘Protect‘Protect your your NO E. Bunker Bay Patch’Patch’ section section ofof the TAFITAFI led led Area 2: Freycinet CULL 2. Will measures to build populations ZONE investigationinvestigation intointo managementmanagement of very large lobsters reduce the Cull site: optionsoptions for for thethe long-spined sea sea urchinurchin project. project. AbaloneAbalone diversdivers in in risk of barrens formation or help Trumpeter Bay conjunction with TAFI investigators conjunctionwill be culling with urchinsTAFI investigatorsin the ‘cull to rehabilitate existing barrens? Reference Site: CULL ZONE will zones’.be culling The ‘nourchins cull zones’in the are ‘cull North side of zones’.reference The areas. ‘no cull zones’ are 3. What are the options to build biomass KEY reference areas. Wineglass Bay Reef of large lobsters on shallow reefs on Sand 5m contours the east coast? Area 3: St Helens ZONE BOUNDARY Research covering the first two questions Cull site: SE is being conducted at selected areas on St Helens Island Tasmania’s east coast. The third question Reference Site: • estimated breakdown of dive time is being addressed using computer models Sloop Rock catching abalone versus culling of rock lobster population dynamics. It is critical that any culling of sea urchins urchins This article provides details about the takes place ONLY in the designated • abalone catch approach to the first question. ‘urchin cull zones,’ whose boundaries • depth of reef where culling occurred. are shown precisely in the maps below. It is essential for the broader project that Ideally, these divers should have GPS ‘PROTECT YOUR PATCH’ there is NO culling of sea urchins outside loggers and depth loggers. Aim of the Project these areas. The project co-ordinators will provide The aim of this component of the survey forms for divers to be completed work is to assess the effectiveness ABALONE DIVERS after every culling dive. of local culling of Centrostephanus by Abalone divers who have elected to Culling by abalone divers is to start in professional abalone divers while they be involved in the ‘Protect your Patch’ April 2009. fish for abalone. project must do so under the direction Abalone divers do not need a permit to In selected areas the development of sea of the project co-ordinators, Craig cull urchins at these sites. urchin barrens in sites from which sea Sanderson and Scott Ling, from TAFI. urchins have been culled by divers will be Their contact details are below. For further information contact Craig compared with adjacent sites where the Johnson at [email protected] or Within the designated sites, participating sea urchins have been left alone. phone (03)6226 2582. divers need to record: In consultation with abalone divers, three • the number of sea urchins culled ‘cull’ areas and associated reference • date of culling areas have been chosen:

29 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > TAFI News

Research spotlight on

Australian salmon by Jaime McAllister and Jeremy Lyle TAFI Marine Research Laboratories

TAFI has recently commenced an tonnes. While there are no concerns investigation into the life history regarding the sustainability of current dynamics of eastern Australian salmon harvest levels, evolving domestic and (Arripis trutta) in Tasmania. The research, international markets have the potential funded by the Fisheries Research and to increase demand for this species. Development Corporation (FRDC), is being Therefore a thorough understanding of A sample of juvenile Australian salmon undertaken in collaboration with NSW the population dynamics and life history and Victorian scientists and will gather of this species is required before any approach to the management of the information on the population structure, potential expansion occurs. species. However, the information on the reproduction, feeding ecology, and the Recent research by the Department of age, growth, reproduction and fishery for fishery for eastern Australian salmon. Primary Industries in NSW has confirmed eastern Australian salmon that is needed Australian salmon are an important that eastern Australian salmon comprise to make sound cross-jurisdictional commercial and recreational species a single stock distributed throughout management decisions, has either been throughout south-east Australia. In southern NSW, Victoria and around lacking or unreliable. Tasmania, commercial catches have Tasmania. Historical data suggest this This research therefore aims to provide averaged around 600 tonnes since stock spawns off the coasts of Victoria an improved understanding of juvenile the 1970s, with Australian salmon the and NSW. Eggs and juveniles are then eastern Australian salmon in Tasmanian second most commonly caught scalefish distributed southwards to Tasmanian waters and to complement similar work species taken by the recreational sector. waters where they grow and migrate being done on adult salmon in NSW Commercial catches have exceeded back to mainland waters upon reaching and Victoria. Over the next 12 months, 1000 tonnes in the past, however recent maturity. As a result of this migratory TAFI will focus specifically on the early annual production levels have tended behaviour there has been growing age, growth, reproduction, and diet of to fluctuate between 350 and 450 pressure for a more co-ordinated eastern Australian salmon. Sampling is being undertaken from commercial and recreational catches as well as independent research fishing from a variety of sites around Tasmania. Findings from our research will ultimately highlight the role Tasmania plays in supporting the stocks of Australian salmon, especially during the juvenile and sub-adult stages, allowing for more sound decisions to be made regarding future management of the fishery across the full distributional range of the species. Further assistance from commercial and recreational fishers on this project is welcomed, especially through the provision of biological samples. For further information please contact Jaime McAllister on (03) 6227 7230 or 0438 102 764 Email: [email protected] Beach seining for juvenile Australian salmon

30 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > TAFI News

Dr Gretta Pecl – 2009 Fulbright Tasmania Scholar by Natalie Johnston

Front row from left: Tasmanian Premier David research programs providing many climate change impacts on the $61M Bartlett, Dr Gretta Pecl & Dr Peter Jarvis opportunities to develop sustained Tasmanian rock lobster fishery and will (Lecturer in School of Physics and the other Tasmanian Fulbright Scholar for 2009) collaborations of major benefit to both provide the basis for similar applications Back row from left: Mr Dan Clune the Charge regions. to Tasmania’s other fisheries and D'Affaires at the U.S. Embassy, Dr Joe Hlubucek, aquaculture industries.’ Executive Director AAFC, Mr Tom Pascarella, Chair ‘Understanding connections between AAFC Board and Professor Daryl Le Grew, oceanographic processes and responses Dr Pecl is one of 23 Australians to Vice Chancellor UTas. to climate change by marine species are be recognised as a Fulbright Scholar AAFC is the Australia-American Fulbright Commission. challenges facing fisheries scientists in 2009. The Fulbright program is the and resource managers the world largest educational scholarship of its over,’ Dr Pecl said. ‘By comparing and kind, created by US Senator J William How much do Tasmanian rock contrasting different systems facing Fulbright and the US Government in lobsters and Alaskan crabs have in similar challenges, useful generalities 1946. Aimed at promoting mutual common apart from being based in will emerge, assisting us to develop understanding through educational broadly applicable approaches toward exchange, it operates between the US climate change ‘hot spots’ and how sustainable management. and 150 countries. Dr Pecl’s scholarship can the comparison assist in the is funded by UTas and the State ‘Techniques developed during the project robust preservation of crustacean Government. will initially be applied to assessing fisheries? The opportunity to research these questions is a dream come true for Dr Gretta Pecl with the award of a prestigious Fulbright Tasmanian Scholarship to spend four months studying at the University of Alaska. Dr Pecl will be undertaking research into how ecological modelling can be used to assess impacts of climate change on the productivity and sustainability of marine resources by using the Alaskan Red King Crab and Tasmanian rock lobster as case studies. ‘Alaska and Tasmania are both hot spots for climate change with increases in ocean temperatures significantly above the global average,’ Dr Pecl said. ‘Additionally, these areas also support productive and valuable crustacean fisheries, and the University of Alaska Fairbanks and the University of Tasmania The 23 Australian Fulbright Scholars for 2009, together with members of the AAFC board, both host incredibly active crustacean US Embassy and the UTas Vice Chancellor

31 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > MAST News

NUBEENA JETTY Jetty reconstruction MAST has selected FPS Constructions Pty Ltd to undertake the reconstruction of the Nubeena Jetty. On site construction program is expected to commence in late April however, there will be a meeting with local users before construction commences. SOUTHPORT JETTY BRID RIVER WHARF The new jetty at Nubeena will be similar The reconstruction of the 125 metre MAST has awarded the contract to in shape and size to the existing jetty long Southport jetty is approaching reconstruct part of the Brid River Wharf to however, the dimensions of the new jetty finalisation. The jetty has been Tas Marine Construction Pty Ltd. Initially have been selected in consultation with constructed outwards from the shore and MAST went to tender seeking a new jetty local users to get best efficiency on the contractors, Tas Marine Construction are constructed of steel sheet pile including site. The initial section of the jetty leading currently installing the last two spans backfill and a concrete and asphalt deck. from the shore will be 5 metres longer of decking. During April the pre cast However, through the tender process, than the existing jetty whilst the outer concrete fender panels and kerbs will MAST has accepted a revised design that section of the jetty will be reduced to be fitted to the jetty, along with finishing uses concrete retaining panels rather 5.8 metres in width. items including bollards and lighting. The than sheet pile. This change of materials The jetty will be constructed using steel jetty is scheduled for completion by the will have no impact on wharf users, it will piles, encased in concrete with an outer end of April. simply provide a more economical solution whilst still ensuring a long service life. HDPE (plastic) sleeve along with pre cast concrete beams, deck and fender panels. The reconstruction of part of the wharf The jetty is scheduled for completion in will commence onsite in late April and is early July 2009. planned to be completed by the end of June. A meeting will be held with local users before work commences to discuss the revised design and the periods when the wharf will be unavailable.

New Nubeena Jetty plan showing existing jetty as dotted line Overview plan of reconstruction at Bridport Wharf

Current Brid River Wharf Current Nubeena Jetty

32 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 Seafood Training Tasmania by Rory Byrne

DVDS COURSE UPDATE PROPOSAL FOR A SINGLE NATIONAL Safety at Sea DVDs are now available MASTER 5 AND MED 3 SYSTEM FOR MARITIME SAFETY from TSIC, MAST and STT. This year we have two scheduled intakes REGULATION for both Master 5 and MED 3. With The second round of industry They are free, so grab one and refresh only a limited number of funded places consultations took place on 15 April those life raft skills. available, it’s first in best dressed. 2009 at Rosny College. If successful this proposal will have a TRAINEESHIPS The first MED 3 intake starts on 4 May significant impact on all commercial DO THEY WORK? and Master 5 starts on 27 April, so if you’re interested please register as soon vessel operators. The proposals include Just ask oyster farmer Joe Bennett as possible. new certificates of competency and from Get Shucked on Bruny Island. reductions in sea service and will be Joe was a trainee with Des Whayman REGIONAL DELIVERY managed by the Australian Maritime and completed his Certificate III in SFI Safety Authority (AMSA) rather than MAST. Aquaculture with STT. We have just concluded Coxswain Restricted, Diesel, Forklift and Deck In addition, Coxswain Limited Sea Service Joe is now employing his own trainees Machinery and Lifting Appliance courses will now be 100 hours and Coxswain 200 hours and there is a new certificate and business is booming. If it worked for at Strahan. These courses were well called Boatmaster that covers the old the boss, it will work for the farm hands! attended and we plan to run a similar raft Master 5 and MED 3 combined. of courses in Strahan in 2010. The devil will be in the detail; while some The next scheduled regional delivery is at changes appear welcome there is just not St Helens in September. Coxswain Deck, enough information on others to judge. Navigation and Diesel will be offered. Please check out the AMSA website for If you live in the area and need any one details, updates and the opportunity to of these tickets/endorsements, let STT comment. know now as your interest may mean the difference between the course going ZAC DOYLE ahead or not. Our delivery goes to where The tragic death of Zac Doyle has the demand is! Limited demand = no shocked and saddened all of us at STT. delivery! Zac was one of our trainees and a more cheerful and likeable young bloke you would be hard pressed to find. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and workmates.

Joe Bennett at his shore base on Bruny Island

Grant Alert Expressions of interest are invited for Round 2 of the Regional Food Producers Innovation and Productivity Program (RFPIPP).

Under the program, competitive, matched-funding grants—generally between $50 000 and $2 million—are available to food and seafood businesses to undertake projects that will help boost the productivity, profi tability and competitiveness of Australia’s regional food producing industry. Please note that the application documentation has changed since Round 1. To submit an expression of interest, you must fi rst register your details and proposed project. After an initial eligibility check, an expression of interest form will be sent to you to complete. Registrations for Round 2 of RFPIPP close at 5.00pm Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) Monday 22 June 2009. Expressions of interest close at 5.00pm (AEST) Monday 6 July 2009. Program guidelines, registration forms and frequently asked questions (FAQs) can be viewed at: www.daff.gov.au/foodinnovation. If you submitted an expression of interest in Round 1 and our assessment suggested re-submitting in Round 2, you will be sent the Round 2 form in the coming days. For more details, phone: 1800 631 715 or e-mail to: [email protected]

33 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > Curiosities

CuriositiesCuriosities by Mary Brewer

Just when you thought that there vertebrates. One of them, the Walea were no more secrets in the seahorse is named after an island in sea, several reports came in of central Sulawesi, Indonesia – the only the strangest creatures being place it has so far been found. discovered and other odd sea Also in shallow waters off Indonesia, creature behaviours. a scuba diver discovered a frogfish, Histiophryne psychedelica, which has NEW JELLYFISH FOUND IN TASMANIA leglike fins on both sides of its body and colorful psychedelic stripes. Each time a A Tasmanian scientist, Dr Lisa-ann fish strikes the seabed it pushes off with Gershwin, has discovered a new species its fins and expels water from tiny gill of jellyfish only 13cm long near the openings to jet itself forward. That and Stanley jetty in the state’s north-west an off-centered tail cause the frogfish in March. Dr Gershwin is the Curator of to bounce around in a bizarre, chaotic Dracula fish Natural Science at the Queen Victoria manner. Having a gelatinous, fist-size Museum and Art Gallery in Launceston body covered with thick folds of skin in Myanmar (Burma), were part of an and made the discovery while taking time that protect it from sharp-edged corals, already known, related species. However, out from a geology field trip. The pale the fish also has a flat face with eyes after a year or so in captivity, they started orange jellyfish is about the size of an directed forward, like humans, and a dying and autopsies revealed teeth. By apple and does not sting. huge, yawning mouth. staining the bone and dissolving away Dr Gershwin is entitled to name the tissue to reveal the full jawbones of dead species and has decided to honour specimens scientists found that the odd museum boss, Patrick Filmer-Sankey. species has rows of bony jaw protrusions that lack the pulp cavities and enamel Meanwhile, also in March, some tiny caps of true teeth. Despite their ghoulish jellyfish the size of a 10 cent coin were appearance, the fangs are probably not found in Launceston’s Lake Trevallyn. used for feeding but for sparring with Identified as Craspedacusta sowerbyi, each other during aggressive displays. scientists believe they were brought from China as tiny larvae on birds’ feet and they could have beneficial consequences TINY WHALE SHARK FOUND as they have a voracious appetite for Donsol, a town in the Philippine province mosquito larvae. Pygmy Seahorse of Sorsogon, is recognised as hosting the largest known annual congregation of whale sharks in the world. For several years now, WWF has been working with the people of Donsol, continuously improving a unique ecotourism program that allows visitors to snorkel with these giants of the sea. When a report was made that a whale shark had been caught, local officials The jellyfish found at Stanley Psychedelic stripes on Histriophryne were expecting to see a very large creature stranded. However, they were NEW SPECIES FOUND IN INDONESIA NEW ‘DRACULA’ FISH DISCOVERED amazed to find the smallest whale shark Underwater photographers discovered Researchers at London’s Natural History they had ever seen – a mere 38cm long, five unknown pygmy seahorses while Museum found several new species in a tied with a small rope to a stick stuck diving in coral reefs in the Red Sea and tank of aquarium fish. Initially museum in sand. Officials took the shark out to Indonesia. All five are less than 2.5cm staff had thought the 1.7cm-long deeper water, where it was less likely tall and are among the tiniest known creatures, Danionella dracula caught to get entangled in a fish net, and set it

34 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > Curiosities

free. In spite of all the research that is POWERFUL PLIOSAUR IS animal and four times the bite of a T-Rex. being done worldwide on whale sharks, STRONGEST ANIMAL FOUND Pliosaurs preyed upon squid-like animals, to this date no one knows where they fish and other marine reptiles. Predator A giant fossil Pliosaur found in the Arctic breed or give birth. This new discovery is X had four huge flippers to propel itself and known as ‘Predator X’ had a bite that the first ever indication that this coastline along, perhaps using just two at cruising would make T-Rex look feeble, scientists may actually be a birthing site. speeds and the others for a burst of from the Natural History Museum of speed. Oslo University said. The 15-metre long CURIOUS OCTOPUS FLOODS Jurassic era marine reptile, found on the AQUARIUM Norwegian Arctic archipelago of Svalbard, UK TEAM BUILDING ROBOFISH TO In February a very dexterous female had a crushing 15 tonnes per square DETECT POLLUTION two-spotted octopus attempted a great inch bite force. The Pliosaur, estimated Robot fish, developed by engineering escape that turned into a great flood to have weighed 45 tonnes and to be company BMT Group and researchers at the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium in 147 million years old, had a bite ten at Essex University, are to be released California. Swimming to the top of her times more powerful than any modern into the sea off north Spain to detect tank, the octopus disassembled a valve pollution. The carp-shaped robots, with her powerful arm, and released at 1.5 metres long and costing $42,000 least 757 litres of seawater into nearby apiece, mimic the movement of real exhibits and offices. The 30cm creature fish and are equipped with chemical remained in her tank and survived her sensors to sniff out potentially hazardous ordeal. But the aquarium’s brand-new pollutants, such as leaks from vessels or floors weren’t so lucky. Aquarium staff underwater pipelines. They will transmit have now rigged her tank with clamps the information back to shore using Wi-Fi and tape to thwart future getaways. technology. Recreation of Pliosaur fossil

CALL FOR PRELIMINARY APPLICATIONS TasFRAB FISHERIES RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT 2010/2011

The Tasmanian Fisheries Research Advisory Board (TasFRAB), provider of advice to the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) and other funding bodies, invites interested persons and organisations to submit preliminary applications for research and development funding in the 2010/2011 fi nancial year relating to one or more of the following outcomes: • The natural resources on which the commercial, recreational and traditional sectors of the fi shing industry depend are used in an ecologically sustainable manner. • The commercial sector of the Australian fi shing industry is profi table and internationally competitive; the commercial, recreational and traditional sectors are socially resilient. • The knowledge and skills of people in and supporting the Australian fi shing industry, and in the wider community, are developed and used so that Australians derive maximum economic, environmental and social benefi ts from fi sheries research and development. In particular, preliminary applications should address the priorities identifi ed in the Tasmanian Fisheries and Aquaculture Research and Development Plan 2005-2008 (both general and sector-specifi c sections). Please note these priorities will be reviewed in April 2009. In addition, preliminary applications should address issues identifi ed by the Research Advisory Groups following annual Research Review to be held as follows: Overview Monday, 30 March 2009 Aquaculture Tuesday, 31 March 2009 Scalefi sh Friday, 3 April 2009 Abalone Monday, 6 April 2009 RecFISH Monday 6 April 2009 Marine Environment Tuesday, 7 April 2009 Scallop & Minor Fisheries Wednesday, 8 April 2009 Crustacean Thursday, 9 April 2009

For a copy of the Strategic R&D Plan and details of the above reviews please contact Diane Mahon, Executive Offi cer, Tasmanian Fisheries Research Advisory Board, email [email protected] or (Ph) 03 6227 7221. Online preliminary application is available on Fishnet - www.fi shnet.gov.au Preliminary Applications close Thursday, June 2009 and should be either e-mailed or mailed to:Diane Mahon, Executive Offi cer, Tasmanian Fisheries Research Advisory Board, Private Bag 49 HOBART TAS 7000; [email protected]

35 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > CSIRO

Algae could fuel New edition of Sharks and cars and jobs Rays of Australia launched The production of biodiesel from algae could reduce greenhouse gas emissions, help to address future fuel shortages and create jobs in rural Australia. CSIRO Spookfish, numbfish, stingarees, fiddler Dr Stevens says sharks and rays live at Energy Transformed researcher Dr rays and cookie-cutter sharks are just the top of the food chain and play an Tom Beer and his team discovered the some of the 322 shark, ray and chimaerid important role in marine ecosystems. ‘But humble organisms’ green credentials species illustrated in the latest edition of many do not reach sexual maturity until 10 during a detailed life-cycle analysis of Sharks and Rays of Australia – a definitive to 12 years old, so the number of young the benefits of algal biodiesel. ‘Our reference by Peter Last and John Stevens they produce is closely linked to the size research has shown that under ideal of CSIRO’s Wealth from Oceans National of the adult population. There is growing conditions it is possible to produce algal Research Flagship. concern about the sustainability of stocks throughout the world, and several species biodiesel at a lower cost and with less Australia’s sharks, rays and chimaerids are listed by national and international greenhouse gas emissions than fossil – collectively known as Chondrichthyans bodies as endangered,’ he says. diesel,’ Dr Beer said. ‘The greenhouse – are just as intriguing as their names gas reductions are the result of avoiding suggest. Their eclectic colours, shapes Shark and ray species featured in the the use of a fossil resource for fuel and patterns reflect environments book include: production, capturing methane produced ranging from remote estuaries to ocean • Harrisson’s Dogfish, Centrophorus by the processed algae to generate depths. Their new descriptions, and harrissoni, which is found mainly off energy and taking into account the their striking portraits by watercolourist south-eastern Australia, and matures potential greenhouse gas offsets from Roger Swainston, will help to guide the late giving birth to litters of only two industry.’ identification and conservation of these pups. Populations have declined by Algae thrive on carbon dioxide (CO ), diverse species. 2 more than 95 per cent because of which means that environmentally fishing by trawl, net and longline gear The first edition of Sharks and Rays of damaging CO2 emissions from industry Australia was produced in 1994. Since across its range. Management controls could also become a useful resource. include trip limits and closed areas. then, 29 species have been discovered Algal biodiesel could also offer a number The species has been nominated in Australian seas and more than 100 of other benefits. ‘Making biodiesel from for protection under the Environment species have been named and formally algae removes the issue of competing Protection and Biodiversity described. As well as documenting these land use because the facilities would Conservation Act, and is classified advances, the new edition – published not be established on land that might as critically endangered on the by CSIRO Publishing – includes updated otherwise be used to grow food and the International Union for Conservation species classifications and descriptions, algal farm has a very low environmental distribution maps, line illustrations by and Natural Resources Red List; impact in comparison to crops that Georgina Davis, family keys and outlines • the Blue Shark, Prionace glauca are grown for biodiesel. Our study also of Chondrichthyan biology and interactions which is a relatively fast growing and found that the establishment of a 500 with humans. wide-ranging species that makes hectare algal biodiesel plant in a rural trans-Atlantic and trans-hemisphere ‘More than a quarter of the world’s area might create up to 45 jobs and migrations. It is one of the world’s Chondrichthyan fauna is found in provide opportunities to diversify in the most heavily fished sharks with Australian seas, and many of the species agricultural sector.’ Dr Beer said. huge numbers caught, particularly by that live on the continental slope have Despite the global interest in the oceanic longline fleets; and only been discovered in the past three production of biodiesel from algae, decades,’ says Dr Last, who is the • the Maugean Skate, Zearaja further research is required to create a director of the Australian National Fish maugeana, which is confined to viable industry with widespread uptake Collection at CSIRO in Hobart. ‘In the estuarine habitats in the Bathurst and and impact. ‘Although the findings of our same period, growth in the trade of shark Macquarie harbours off south-western study are very promising, challenges still fins has fuelled increasing demand for Tasmania, mainly in shallow waters. Its exist in relation to cost, infrastructure shark and ray products, driving significant populations are small and could easily needs and the scale of production increases in shark take by commercial be further reduced by human activity required to make algal plants feasible,’ fisheries worldwide,’ he says. and climate change. Dr Beer added.

36 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > Bureau of Meteorology

at night are particularly dangerous as you are unlikely to be able to see them until it is too late. If you encounter a waterspout, the safest course of action is to steer away at right angles to the direction of the movement of the waterspout. Lightning strikes are not common on vessels. At the least they may cause by Malcolm Riley damage to sensitive electrical equipment; at the worst, death or injury to people on board. There is not a lot of action that can be taken to avoid lightning strike (apart from not leaving the marina). However, it Most mariners are familiar with the cold. A mariner underway would notice is a good strategy for people who are not Coastal Waters Forecast giving wind the leading edge or gust front from the needed to run the vessel to stay away from speeds, seas and swell. If the Bureau downdraft of a storm as the beginning of masts and go below if possible. of Meteorology expects thunderstorms a squall. The term ‘gusts may be 40% to occur over marine areas they are greater’ mentioned in Bureau forecasts Hail, especially from storms coming off included in the forecast – usually as brief does not apply to the gusts and squalls the land, may be large, even greater than statements in the forecast: ‘chance of an from storms. These may be very strong 2cm. Large hail may cause damage to your evening thunderstorm.’ and come from a different direction to vessel’s fittings. Seek shelter inside your the prevailing wind, which can cause lee vessel. Mariners noticing thunderstorms on the shore and anchoring problems to develop forecast, or seeing lightning either over Heavy rainfall, apart from being cold and very rapidly. the land or the sea, or a darkening of the unpleasant if you are working outside, horizon in a particular direction should Gust fronts from storms can travel over will also reduce your and other adjacent have alarm bells ringing. There are many 20 kilometres (11 nautical miles) from the vessels’ visibility, maybe down to tens of dangers for mariners in and around actual storm. Seas can rise rapidly with metres. Also heavy rain will reduce the storms. the onset of a squall. effectiveness of radar echoes. When you are in heavy rain you may think the freighter Thunderstorms and showers produce Waterspouts are basically tornados that is in your vicinity will be able to see you downdrafts. These are caused by colder over the water, they are not usually as on their radar, but do not count on it, as the dense air descending in the cloud and strong as their land-based cousins, but echoes from the rain may fill the screen! then spreading out in all directions once easily strong enough to be a danger to it meets the water or land surface. vessels. The yacht ‘Nicorette’ retired For more information contact Malcolm Because the air has come rapidly from from the 2001 Sydney to Hobart after an Riley from the Bureau of Meteorology high in the atmosphere it is usually quite encounter with a waterspout. Waterspouts (03) 6221 2081

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37 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > beyondblue

Depression: Australia’s hidden illness

WHAT is the most debilitating If left untreated, depression may • being reckless or taking unnecessary illness in Australia? If you said contribute to people losing their jobs, risks (eg. driving fast or dangerously, experiencing relationship break downs gambling) heart disease, stroke or even and withdrawing from their circle of • slowing down of thoughts and actions. cancer, you’re wrong – it is friends and family. “If anyone recognises these symptoms depression. Depression can strike Depression can cause physiological in themselves or anyone they know, and anyone at any time for a whole changes and is a significant risk factor they’ve lasted more than two weeks, it range of reasons. One in eight for the development of heart disease may indicate depression. A good first men and one in six women will and stroke. step would be to speak to a doctor or experience depression in their CEO of beyondblue: the national health professional,” Ms Young said. lifetime. depression initiative, Leonie Young says “Help is only a phone call away - or a the good news is most people recover click on the computer. We want people While we all experience bad days, from depression if they get the right to know that no one needs to go through depression is more than just feeling sad treatment. tough times alone and just like physical or upset or coping with stress every now “Depression and anxiety can be as health problems, effective treatments are and then. People with depression usually serious, debilitating and life-threatening available for mental health problems like have persistent negative thoughts, as a physical illness, yet less than half of depression.” relentless, ongoing stress and find it those affected seek help,” she said. “In Treatment of depression varies according difficult to carry out usual day-to-day many cases, people don’t get treatment to the needs of the individual. Physical tasks. Many also experience physical because they don’t recognise the signs exercise may be recommended to help symptoms like a churning gut, muscle and symptoms of depression, they don’t prevent and treat mild depression, pain and lethargy. Emotional changes, know where to get help or they’re too whereas psychological treatment and/or such as irritability, moodiness and loss ashamed to talk about how they feel. medication may be required to treat more of interest in activities they used to enjoy People shouldn’t think that seeking help severe depression. often accompany depression. is a sign of weakness.” Under the Federal Government’s There are several warning signs people expansion of mental health funding, can look for if they are worried about a you can claim rebates for treatment of family member, friend or colleague. depression and anxiety under Medicare, Signs and symptoms of depression can if you qualify for a referral from a General include: Practitioner, psychiatrist or paediatrician. • moodiness that is out of character You could be eligible for rebates for • increased irritation and frustration up to 12 individual consultations • finding it hard to take minor personal with a psychologist, social worker or criticisms occupational therapist (18 in exceptional circumstances) and up to 12 group • spending less time with family and therapy sessions each year. friends • loss of interest in food, sex, exercise, For more information on depression, or other pleasurable activities anxiety, where to get help and available treatments go to • being awake throughout the night www.beyondblue.org.au or call the • increased alcohol and drug use beyondblue info line on 1300 224 636 • staying home from work and school (cost of a local call from a land line). • increased physical health complaints like fatigue or pain

38 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 by Mary Brewer

standard of food remains consistently Chilli salt abalone good. He has known many of his suppliers Prossers on the Beach This also works with either calamari for a long time and they know exactly There is no doubt about it that Prossers (squid) or octopus is in a superb position, sitting as it does what he requires. As a former fisherman in the Sandy Bay regatta pavilion, with he knows the value of the product and Chilli salt mix breathtaking views up and down the River he is passionate about the presentation 1/2 tblspn chilli powder Derwent. As we sat waiting for our meal and flavour of the food. Stuart still loves 1 tblspn onion powder an assortment of boats came and went, going out in his converted fishing boat, 1 tblspn salt some only metres from where we sat, and Tamaré and enjoys nothing better than 1/3 cup rice flour if one became bored with that there was exploring Tasmania’s untouched coastline. Dressing nam jin a live fish tank to watch with fresh lobster, So inspired was he by the State that he 4 limes juiced abalone and king crabs when in season. produced a television cooking show with a difference called ‘Wild at Heart’ which 1 tblspn palm sugar syrup Winner of the 2008 Restaurant and showcased not only our superb produce but 1/2 tblspn fish sauce Caterers Association’s Best Seafood the State’s natural beauty. 1 clove garlic (chopped) Restaurant in Tasmania and of many other The steamed mussels had great flavour as 2 coriander roots - mashed together with awards prior to that, we expected the meal mortar and pestle to be of an exceptional standard. did the grilled mushrooms with prosciutto in a Heidi Gruyere cheese fondue. The 1 green chilli Chef Stuart Prosser is Michelin 3 Star trout with tomato and lemon infused cous Simply mix all together trained with international experience cous was firm and not overcooked, with the and a passion for fine food, particularly Salad sauce not overpowering the delicate flavour 1/4 peeled, seeded, green paw paw (or Tasmanian. He has bought to the of the fish. But the star dish was definitely green mango) finely sliced then hand restaurant some innovative taste ideas and the Cajun Crusted Blue Eye. Variations of cut into the finest strands. considerable energy. the same dish have been on the menu as 1/2 red onion (sliced thinly) long as I can remember and the flavour of Beginning his career in the early days of 1/4 bunch coriander (roughly chopped) the fish is well complemented by the Cajun Wrest Point Casino, Stuart completed his 1/4 bunch Vietnamese mint (roughly apprenticeship there in 1979 and then crust and the citrus butter. chopped) spent a few years travelling in Europe and The desserts were exceptional and we 1 large finely chopped red chilli training in some of the top restaurants. He just could not go past the Lindt Chocolate Mix all together in bowl. worked with Paul Bocuse and Roger Vergé Mousse Cake which was a layered sponge and slowly gained the inspiration to open with almond praline, mousse and ganache Garnish his own restaurant. So in 1986 Prossers on with a warm vanilla bean anglaise. 1 tblspn fried shallots (bought from Asian the Beach was born. As Hobart’s first true food store) Stuart is very generous about sharing his waterfront restaurant the position ensured 1 tblspn chopped cashew nuts mixed recipes and has some on the restaurant’s it was an immediate hit. Then came the together. food. Again, at the time there were few website www.prossersonthebeach.com.au good seafood restaurants in the State so A couple of his favourites follow. To prepare abalone the timing was perfect. If using abalone it is important to beat the abalone until relaxed. If using calamari or But, not content with travelling the same Lemon infused olive oil octopus simply score the flesh, then fry on road, Stuart is now looking at big expansion Ingredients medium heat add vegetable oil. Place a lid plans for the restaurant. These include Zest of 5 lemons, 250 ml fruity olive oil on top and allow to cook for 1 minute til changing the entrance and creating a new lightly golden then turn over and repeat. area at the seaward side of the building Method Place in blender and blitz for 1 minute. where he plans to place lounges and Assembly Pour into a container and leave at room coffee tables. Stuart hopes to make the Slice up abalone and place on plate top temperature to infuse over night. Strain atmosphere more relaxed and, while some with salad, then dressing and fried shallot, and keep in fridge. of the old favourites will remain on the cashew mix. Enjoy with a spicy Gewurtz menu, he will also introduce a tapas style Uses Traminer. meal option. Pasta risotto, grilled fish, shellfish, chickens. By sourcing as much of his produce locally and as fresh as possible, he ensures the

39 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 > Directory

TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY COUNCIL Tasmanian Shellfish Executive Council PO Box 878, Sandy Bay 7006 PO Box 878 Sandy Bay 7006 WEBSITE LINKS Chairman – Richard Pugh 0408 210 672 117 Sandy Bay Rd, Sandy Bay 7005 AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT [email protected] Chief Executive: Neil Stump 0417 394 009 Australian Fisheries Management Authority [email protected] www.tsic.org.au Secretary: Tom Gray 0419 398 640 (AFMA) Ph 03 6224 2332 Fax 03 6224 2321 Tasmanian Abalone Growers Association www.afma.gov.au Chairman: Mike Wing Australian Maritime Safety Authority WILD FISHERIES PO Box 11, Dunalley 7177 www.amsa.gov.au Tasmanian Abalone Council Ltd Ph 03 6253 6007 Fax 03 6253 6009 The Bureau of Meteorology 262 Arglye Street Bruny Island Shellfish Growers Association Hobart 7000 www.bom.gov.au/marine President: Des Wolfe President: Greg Woodham CSIRO – Marine and Atmospheric Research PO Box 2080, Lower Sandy Bay 7005 0419 524 174 www.cmar.csiro.au Ph/Fax 03 6225 0321 Chief Executive: Dean Lisson 0419 599 954 Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) Administration Manager: Melinda Mullen DPIW MARINE RESOURCES Ph 03 6231 1955 Fax 03 6231 1966 also includes: email: [email protected] Scallops, Giant Crab, Octopus, Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource or Rock Lobster Inquiries Economics (ABARE) Tasmanian Commercial Divers Association James Parkinson Ph 03 6233 6797 or PO Box 878, Sandy Bay 7006 Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service Hilary Revill Ph 03 6233 6036 or President: Bryan Denny 0417 502 195 (AQIS) David Jarvis Ph (03) 6233 6380 Biosecurity Australia (BA) Tasmanian Rock Lobster Fishermen’s Abalone or Marine Plant Inquiries Bureau of Rural Sciences (BRS) Association www.daff.gov.au President: John Sansom 03 6247 7284 Matt Bradshaw Ph 03 6233 3512 Department of Environment and Water CEO: Rodney Treloggen Commercial Dive Inquiries or Inshore Clams Resources (DEW) Ph/Fax 03 6376 1805 0418 138 768 Greg Ryan Ph 03 6216 4227 www.environment.gov.au Secretary/Treasurer: Margaret Atkins Scalefish Inquiries FarmBis Tasmanian Scalefish Fishermen’s Association Andrew Sullivan Ph 03 6233 3018 www.farmbis.gov.au President: Shane Bevis – Recreational Fishing Inquiries Fisheries Research and Development Ph/Fax 03 6247 7634 Rod Pearn Ph 03 6233 7042 Corporation (FRDC) Secretary: Frances Seaborn www.frdc.com.au PO Box 332, Somerset 7322. Licensing Inquires Ph 03 6233 2147 Food Standards Australia New Zealand Tasmanian Scallop Fishermen’s Association (FSANZ) Quota Monitoring Inquiries 286 Windermere Rd, Windermere 7252 www.foodstandards.gov.au Ph 03 6233 3539 President: John Hammond 0429 130 238 National Oceans Office (NOO) Secretary/Treasurer: (Mrs) Jill Hammond Marine Farm Planning/Operations Inquiries www.oceans.gov.au/home.jsp Ph 03 6328 1478 Fax 03 6328 1421 Will Joscelyne Ph 03 6233 3527 OceanWatch also includes: Tasmanian Shark Fishermen’s Association Marine Environment Inquiries SeaNet 64 Ormond St, Bellerive 7018 Graham Woods Ph 03 6233 7752 www.oceanwatch.org.au President: Brian Bailey 0407 874 199 Seafood Services Australia (SSA) Special Permits Secretary/Treasurer: (Mrs) Heather Bailey www.seafood.net.au Sally Williams Ph 03 6233 3119 Ph 03 6244 2775 Fax 03 6244 6939 Seafood Training Australia (STA) Tasmanian Sashimi Fishermen’s Association www.seafoodtraining.com.au TRAINING 14 Tabor Road, Acton Park 7170 President: Peter Green Seafood Training Tasmania STATE Secretary: David Chaffey Ph 03 6248 1928 2a Gladstone Street, Battery Point 7004 Department of Primary Industries and Water Manager Rory Byrne Ph 03 6233 6442 www.dpiw.tas.gov.au and/or www.fishing.tas.gov.au AQUACULTURE Fax 03 6223 2780 Marine and Safety Tasmania Tasmanian Aquaculture Council [email protected] www.mast.tas.gov.au/domino/mast/newweb.nsf PO Box 878, Sandy Bay 7006 Commonwealth Fisheries Association Natural Resource Management (NRM) 117 Sandy Bay Rd, Sandy Bay 7005 CEO: Christopher Melham www.nrmtas.com.au Chairman: Geoff Pickard 6225 1547 PO Box 9022, Deakin, ACT 2600 Tasmanian Aquaculture and Fisheries Institute TSIC: Neil Stump 0417 394 009 Phone: 02 6260 1283 or 0418 620 637 www.tafi.org.au email [email protected] Fax: 02 6260 3505 Tasmanian Seafood Industry Council (TSIC) Tasmanian Salmonid Growers Association email: [email protected] www.tsic.org.au PO Box 321, Sandy Bay 7006 Chairman: Chris Dockray FISHERIES WHOLESALE Executive Officer: Pheroze Jungalwalla Master Fish Merchants Association Ph 03 6214 0555 www.mfma.com.au/ [email protected] www.tsga.com.au Melbourne Wholesale Fish Market www.chsmith.com.au/fish-prices/index.htm Sydney Fish Market www.sydneyfishmarket.com.au

40 TASMANIAN SEAFOOD INDUSTRY NEWS APRIL/MAY 2009 A PROUDLY TASMANIAN George Doumouras ENTERPRISE General Manager

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