Today, a protest has been held outside the 2024 Seafood Directions Conference, where the Blue Economy CRC and fish farm companies are presenting the disastrous proposal to expand toxic fish farms into Bass Strait.

The presentation focuses on a 3-year research trail run by Tassal in Bass Strait. It will be the first time Tasmanian fish farms will be placed in Commonwealth waters

The public comment for this approval has just closed and the federal environment must decide if this is a controlled action. Bob Brown Foundation made a submission stating that it must be a controlled action based on the risk of death and entanglement of the Shy Albatross, an endangered species under the EPBC act.

“Wherever fish farms are around Tasmania, they leave behind a trail of environmental destruction,” said Alistair Allan, Antarctic and Marine campaigner at Bob Brown Foundation.

“These industrial salmon farms are driving the Maugean Skate to extinction in Macquarie Harbour, they are using thousands of explosives on seals in the south and just last year, we documented tens of thousands of their own fish dying in the east. This industry is a blight on Tasmania’s environment.”

“Now this toxic industry wants to expand into Bass Strait and destroy it as well. The site survey showed two endangered Shy Albatross at the site. With hundreds of native seabirds dying in fish farms around the state, this incredible species is destined to suffer the same fate if big salmon gets its way again.”

“It’s time for this destructive industry to take notice of community wishes and leave the Shy Albatross and Bass Strait alone.”

“Australians everywhere can do their part in helping protect the Maugean Skate, fur seals and the Shy Albatross, by refusing to buy Tasmanian farmed salmon,” said Alistair Allan.