Southern Bluefin Tuna auction raises $100,000 for mental health charities
A Southern Bluefin Tuna donated by South Seas Tuna has raised over $100,000 at a charity auction event in Sydney.
The Wet Cold + Delicious: A Deep Dive into Tuna auction event on 24 June 2024 drew in over 100 guests, with all proceeds going towards supporting mental health charities via the BuildCorp Foundation.
The evening began with a traditional Japanese Magura Kaitai Sho, where guests observed Master Fishmonger Narito Ishii and Sushi San Toshio Oie break down a 100kg premium Southern Bluefin Tuna into various sections. As guests were informed of each cut, they were divided into blocks and auctioned.
“We are proud to donate this premium fish, caught off the coast of Eden, to support mental health,” said Paul Lavalle, co-owner of South Seas Tuna, a Tuna Australia member.
The fishing industry is tough and at times can be really challenging, so we are pleased to get behind this cause to help our community.”
A highlight of the evening was the masterful slicing of the tuna by prominent Japanese sushi chefs Toshihiko Oe (of Sushi Ooe) and Narito Ishii.
“It was amazing to watch. We will be part of this event every year moving forward,” Lavalle said.
Among the lucky buyers was chef Neil Perry, who runs the fine dining seafood restaurant Margaret in Double Bay, securing a premium cut of the Southern Bluefin Tuna.
“Australian Tuna is truly world class, I feel privileged to present this fish to guests in my restaurants,” Perry said.
Held at the picturesque Shell House Sydney, the event also included an exquisite five-course dinner. This dinner featured a tasting of the four primary species of tuna caught in the Eastern Tuna and Billfish Fishery, with guests treated to a range of expertly prepared dishes.
The event also emphasised the importance of educating the market about Bluefin Tuna.
"One of the great opportunities for the Australian Tuna industry is to educate chefs and consumers on the great quality, culinary versatility, and value Australian wild tuna offers," said Fishtales Director John Susman, the event’s organiser. "An event such as this in part helps tell that story."
“The event is a celebration of Southern Bluefin Tuna season,” added Susman. “It’s now in its third year and has become a highlight in Sydney’s social and charitable calendar.”
The combination of fine dining and philanthropy makes this event truly unique."
"It’s incredible to see the community come together for such a worthy cause. The generosity displayed here tonight is truly heartwarming," said Susman.
