Stage II of the new facilities at Cambinata Yabbies of Kukerin open

19/3/99
The development of the State's yabby industry is set for a boost with the opening of new facilities for Cambinata Yabbies of Kukerin, Fisheries Minister Monty House said today.
Speaking at the opening of Stage II of the company's processing plant, the Minister said that the facilities would provide a greater capacity to process more yabbies from the district for local and overseas markets.
"The installation of the MC5000 Austmarine tank to hold and store up to five tonnes of yabbbies for long periods of time will be invaluable for the continued growth of the business," Mr House said.
"In order for farmers to be placed at the forefront of the international marketplace, we need to ensure that we have leading edge technology and Cambinata Yabbies has recognised the need for this to progress their business."
Western Australia is the nation's largest producer of farmed yabbies with product worth more than $2 million annually.
"We are exporting 70 per cent of our produce to Europe and making inroads into Asia," Mr House said
Michael and Mary Nenke of Cambinata Yabbies were recently invited to participate in "Focus Taiwan", an initiative of the Minister, which aims to promote WA agricultural and fishery products to international markets.
"Focus Taiwan" was co-ordinated by AGWEST Trade and Development and followed on from the successful "Focus Indonesia" campaign.
"Cambinata Yabbies received an enthusiastic response from Taiwanese buyers and I am confident that the Taiwanese market can be developed by the yabby industry," Mr House said.
"Aquaculture presents exciting opportunities for the State and the Government is committed to building aquaculture into a viable and sustainable industry in WA.
"The Government has committed $12.5 million for aquaculture planning and development since 1994."
Mr House commended Michael and Mary Nenke for their commitment and vision to develop the yabby industry in Western Australia.
Media Contact: Julie Cole (08) 9481 2044