Published: 31 July 2023 Updated: 11 August 2023
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DATE 10 Aug 2023
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Over 100 eager locals visited FRDC, IMAS, and CSIRO at the Waterfront Pavilion in Hobart to speak to the scientists undertaking research in Storm Bay. 

By Dempsey Ward

 

Tasmanians of all ages and backgrounds made their way to Hobart's Waterfront Pavilion to learn more about the research being undertaken on salmon farming in Storm Bay, situated on Tasmania’s south-eastern coastline. With around a dozen scientists from CSIRO and the University of Tasmania’s Institute of Marine and Antarctic Studies, they were able to discuss and explore - the monitoring, sampling, and modelling work being undertaken in this region and other salmon farming locations around Tasmania. 

Visitors also sought information about the general health of the Storm Bay ecosystem, current levels of science monitoring, and how these results are used by relevant management agencies to ensure ongoing health of this area. 

 

Visitors talking to FRDC representatives, Research Portfolio Manager Josh Fielding and Extension Officer David Maynard

Research Portfolio Manager Josh Fielding and Extension Officer David Maynard represented FRDC at the Storm Bay Open House. 

 

Exhibits and points of interest at the open house included:  

  • The sediments and seaweed samples taken from around salmon pens as part of the various studies, which was a visual treat for the eyes with many quoting its ‘fantastic visuals, tanks and fauna’.  
  • Using - microscopes and seeing the equipment used in Storm Bay diving and scientific studies.  
  • A virtual model of the coastal waters off southeast Tasmania that allowed visitors to observe and understand the links between climate, seasons, currents and reefs. 

 

A group of people looking at a poster

Institute of Marine and Antarctic Studies Research Assistant Alex Coutts provided attendees with information about the support tools used to make decision for Storm Bay. 

 

The event also gave visitors the chance to ask questions and make personal connections and contacts and there were a number of follow-up meetings organised between interest groups and researchers. 

FRDC is proud to fund and support the research currently underway in Storm Bay. 

Watch the video below to see a recap of the event.

 

 

 

Find out more about FRDC’s research into Storm Bay: https://www.frdc.com.au/storm-bay-research-program

 

This relates to R&D Plan Outcomes 5