Media Release
Fisherman in the Commonwealth managed Bass Strait Central Zone Scallop Fishery have had a cracker of a year, with great catch rates and good hauls of high quality scallops.
CEO of the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) Dr James Findlay said that this is great news for scallop lovers.
“Catches are at the highest level for quite some time,” Dr Findlay said.
“Effective management by AFMA and industry means stocks are in good shape.
“Each season, AFMA closes beds of scallops to allow the population to re-grow. The number and size of the beds closed for fishing are determined by an annual stock survey of the scallops.
“But in areas that are open, scallop fishers will be harvesting right up until the end of December, and there will be fresh locally caught scallops available for seafood lovers for the Christmas and new year period.”
Industry agree that this season’s scallops are some of the best they’ve seen in decades. Mr Peter Mellios has been processing scallops in Moorabbin, Victoria for 27 years and is over the moon with the condition of scallops being landed this year.
“These are some of the best scallops I’ve seen in about 20 years,” Mr Mellios said.
“The quality has been outstanding which has created a lot of excitement in the market place with increasing interest and demand which is a great boost for the industry.”
Tasmania scallop fisherman and processor, Mr Allan Barnett also acknowledged the success of this season.
“A consistent supply is key to sustaining the available markets and catches this season have been excellent,” Mr Barnett said.
“This is very satisfying for those operators who have made a long term commitment to the industry, and to supplying markets with high quality scallops.”
As we near closer to Christmas, and the planning for the Christmas Day feast continues, it’s still not too late to make a sustainable choice by adding Bass Strait scallops to your Christmas shopping list.
More information on the sustainable management of Bass Strait scallops can be found at afma.gov.au.
ENDS