Tuna Australia wins gong for safety research at NSW seafood awards
Tuna Australia was recognised as one of the top seafood players at the Sydney Fish Market Seafood Excellence Awards on 23 April 2024.
Tuna Australia won the Safety Award for its research into improving worker safety and reducing bycatch.
“We are thrilled to be commended for our industry-leading effort to find improved ways to catch fish sustainably while reducing the risks to boat workers,” said Tuna Australia CEO David Ellis.
Tuna Australia CEO David Ellis collecting the Safety Award.
Ellis said the award acknowledges the economic and social contributions of Tuna Australia members to NSW.
“While Tuna Australia operates nationally, many of our members work in NSW, including Coffs Harbour, Port Stephens, Ulladulla, Narooma, Bermagui and Eden.”
We employ many people in NSW – such as on boats, in processing facilities, and retail shops – thereby contributing to regional economies.”
Tuna Australia was highly commended for the Research, Development and Extension Award for its endeavours to safeguard seabirds and enhance crew safety.
“These efforts are made possible with the backing of the Fisheries Research Development Corporation, the Australian Fisheries Management Authority, and research institutions, including the Australian Maritime College and University of the Sunshine Coast, and Tuna Australia members,” said Ellis.
“This collective support allows us to drive real progress.”
Tuna Australia member 4 Seas won the Primary Producer Award (Interstate/Overseas).
Tuna Australia member 4 Seas, based in Mooloolaba, secured the Primary Producer Award (Interstate/Overseas).
“This award recognises our dedication to the Australian seafood sector and our company’s mission to deliver quality fish to customers while expanding our market,” said 4 Seas owner Adam Whan.
The biennial awards were hosted in spectacular style on ‘The Jackson’ boat in Darling Harbour.
The awards showcase the seafood industry’s top players across 11 categories for their contribution to the economy, professionalism, and commitment to supplying high-quality seafood to local, national and international markets.
“NSW has some of the best seafood in the world and all entrants are great examples of the excellence happening across the industry,” said NSW Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty, the special guest at the awards ceremony.
Tuna Australia’s efforts were also lauded in March 2024 at the Queensland Seafood Excellence Awards 2024, where it won the Health and Safety and Research, Development, and Extension Awards.
We’re proud to see our industry association and members being honoured for their passion for the seafood industry, excellence and innovative thinking,” said Ellis.
As state victors, Tuna Australia will advance to the National Seafood Awards. Winners will be announced at the Seafood Directions Conference on 10-12 September 2024 in Hobart, Tasmania.