Media release
25 August 2015
Despite its name, there is nothing to be blue about when it comes to the sustainability of Australia blue grenadier with the winter spawning blue grenadier fishery today receiving independent certification by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC).
The fishery now joins six other Australian fisheries that proudly hold the MSC certification for fisheries sustainability.
The CEO, Australian Fisheries Management Authority Dr James Findlay welcomed the news saying it was more independent evidence of the sustainability fishing operations of Commonwealth seafood suppliers.
“Congratulations to the operators in this fishery, Petuna Sealord Deepwater Fishing Pty Ltd and Sanford Ltd on this significant achievement to meet the rigorous standards of the MSC assessment process,” Dr Findlay said.
“Industry has worked hard over the last decade to demonstrate the sustainability of Australian fisheries.
“It is great to see Australian operators and fisheries being recognised by this global, independent sustainable seafood program.
“Importantly, it also means that you can be assured that blue grenadier, or hoki as it is also called, will remain a staple fish in the Australian seafood market and on our tables for many years to come.”
The AFMA managed stock is predominantly fished in the Commonwealth Southern and Eastern Scalefish and Shark Fishery. The latest science shows the stock was in great shape and as a result, for the 2015-16 fishing season the total allowable catch for blue grenadier was increased by close to 2000 tonnes from the previous season.
For more information of AFMA’s sustainable fisheries management visit afma.gov.au.