New mussel farm opened in Denmark

17/9/04
A new mussel farm in Denmark will further enhance Western Australia's reputation as a leader in sustainable aquaculture development.
The Wilson Inlet Mussel Farm was officially opened yesterday by Cockburn MLA Fran Logan in his capacity as Parliamentary Secretary to Fisheries Minister Kim Chance.
Mussels are the most popular Western Australian seafood and one of the most successful aquaculture industries in WA, worth nearly $2million annually, with almost 700,000 kilograms produced each year.
"There is great potential for aquaculture in WA and, with our wild fisheries stocks declining, aquaculture is the best way to meet the world's growing demand for seafood," Mr Chance said.
Proprietors Wilson Inlet Seafood Management chose the site in Denmark after it was identified in the Aquaculture Planning Strategy for Wilson Inlet.
Blue Mussels in particular were marked as a favourable species to aquaculture in the Wilson Inlet for several reasons.
The species is not native to Wilson Inlet, but has inhabited its shallower banks for many years. The mussel beds are large enough to support commercial spat collection.
Mr Chance said the new farm complied with the recommendations of the strategy and highlighted the potential for aquaculture to thrive in WA.
"It is essential the community, industry and Government bodies embrace and support such aquaculture investments as the Wilson Inlet Mussel Farm to help further develop aquaculture in our State," he said.
"This support is demonstrated by the Department of Fisheries which continues to play an integral role in the expansion of our developing aquaculture industry."
Minister's office: 9213 6700