AFMA Commissioner – Renata Brooks
On 30 September 2016, AFMA welcomed a new Commissioner Renata Brooks to the independent AFMA Commission. Renata has been appointed until 30 June 2019. With her diverse experience in the areas of science and research, agriculture, fisheries, biosecurity, compliance and occupational safety Ms Brooks has already proved a valuable addition to the AFMA Commission.
During a recent visit to Canberra, AFMA’s Graduate, Sophie Fisher caught up with Renata and asked her to reel off some details on how she got into fisheries.
Can you tell us a bit about your background?
I was first involved in fisheries in the NSW Department of Primary Industries where I held a number of senior executive positions within the areas of science and research, agriculture, fisheries, biosecurity, compliance and mine safety. This included a stint as the Deputy Director General Agriculture and Fisheries. I then went on to lead the research and development portfolio which included fisheries science. Since 2009, I have been a Director on the Fisheries Research & Development Corporation and was appointed as Deputy Chair in 2015.
What makes you interested in fisheries?
Food is such a fundamental thing. Humans have been fishing forever and will hopefully continue to fish forever. I am interested in evolving the necessary sustainability frameworks to ensure that this will be possible. Fisheries are an incredible resource and we are blessed to have access to this resource in Australia and the industries and communities which depend on it. In order to retain it, we must work with industry, address the expectations of the community and ensure that the regulatory framework is sound.
Are you a keen fisher?
I used to be many years ago. I have recently moved to the Coast and am hoping this will give me more opportunity to take it back up.
What’s your favourite seafood dish to cook?
There are too many to choose from! I went to Sicily last year which has a rich fishing history and some fabulous seafood dishes. I have been exploring a number of these since I have come home-using Australian seafood of course.
Thanks for taking time to have a chat Renata!
For more information on the AFMA Commission, visit afma.gov.au.