Push for new seafood markets on south coast

12/11/02
A new project to help expand the south coast fishing industry has been announced by Fisheries Minister Kim Chance.
The project will investigate ways to increase the value and number of purchasers of Australian salmon and herring caught along the south coast, as well as co-ordinating marketing efforts for the products.
The South Coast Licensed Fishermen's Association (SCLFA) and Albany's fish processors have formed an industry council, which will drive the project with the support of the Great Southern Development Commission.
"The industry has already done substantial work to improve both the image and nature of the herring and salmon product and the Government is pleased to support the marketing effort," Mr Chance said.
"It is important to capitalise on the clean and green qualities offered by this fishery and create a demand for this untapped product."
The Minister said the Great Southern fishing industry had suffered in recent years through viral destruction of the pilchard resource with the loss of several processors and fishermen.
"The industry on the south coast has also traditionally relied upon single markets whereas this project will seek to generate new markets and new products to secure jobs for the region," he said.
Mr Chance said the project had secured the services of Andrew Campbell, an experienced marketing director, who successfully established a world-wide distribution network for the Nile Perch fish.

"Mr Campbell will focus on establishing business relationships with potential overseas buyers to create a demand for value-added salmon and herring products," the Minister said.
"He will also work with the local industry to identify the best opportunities."
The Great Southern Development Commission's Regional Development Scheme and the WA Fishing Industry Council's Development and Better Interest Fund are contributing $30,000 each to the project. Further in-kind support will come from industry.
Minister's office: 9213 6700