Tassal keeps North-West options open

Company waits on salmon plan but:

TASSAL says it is keeping an open mind about expanding into new parts of Tasmania in the wake of a State Government move to release more coastal waters for aquaculture.

Fish farming is set to be expanded to Tasmania’s far North-West and possibly other areas under a soon-tobe-released salmon industry growth plan.

As a prelude to the plan, the State Government has announced a new salmon “grow zone” around Circular Head and King Island.

So far, Petuna Aquaculture has expressed interest in the new zone, specifically around Three Hummock Island.

Tassal will soon begin farming at a new site at Okehampton Bay, is about to reactivate a site at Port Arthur and, in the wake of the Government plan, says it is willing to look at opportunities elsewhere.

Tassal senior manager corporate engagement Barbara McGregor said the company was waiting for the State Government to release its plan for the industry before committing to other locations.

“Once the document has been released, Tassal will review any future operational expansion opportunities, including on the North-West Coast,” she said. “As is our practice, this will be done in consultation with all stakeholders and the community.”

Tassal’s expansion to the previously fish farm-free East Coast has generated a loud public backlash, although the company claims grassroots support at Triabunna.

But Circular Head Mayor Daryl Qulliam predicts aquaculture companies setting up in the Circular Head region won’t face the same resistance.

Tassal plans to begin farming salmon again at Port Arthur’s Long Bay for the first time in more than a decade.

Greens leader Cassy O’Connor called on Tassal and the State Government to be more upfront with Tasmanians about the Port Arthur plan.

Ms McGregor defended Tassal’s stakeholder engagement process in relation to Port Arthur. “Tassal provided Ms O’Connor with a personal tour and overview of the operations and our plans on 20 April this year,” she said.

“Tassal has been nothing but transparent in our communications with stakeholders — including with Ms O’Connor — about our plans for the Port Arthur lease.”

Tasman Mayor Roseanne Heyward said the council supported the Port Arthur venture and was satisfied with Tassal’s stakeholder engagement in relation to the Port Arthur site.

Cr Heyward said Tassal had communicated extensively about the project, including doorknocking local residents.

“You might find some people that are upset about its reinstatement but, on the whole, we have had Tassal in our community for 30 years and it’s part of our community and we have a lot of people who work for Tassal and the council is very supportive,” she said.

Tassal has a significant presence on the Tasman Peninsula with established fish farms at Nubeena.