By Dempsey Ward
Over 1200 conference delegates descended on Darwin in early June to hear and share global aquaculture research and news at the World Aquaculture Society Conference 2023.
During the three-day event themed 'Supporting Strength in Aquaculture' attendees were engrossed in a diverse range of presentations and discussions on aquaculture species including finfish, shellfish, crustaceans, and molluscs.
The conference kicked off with keynote presentations from the Chief Executive Officer of Humpty Doo Barramundi, Dan Richards, and Managing Director of BioMar Australia, David Whyte, who showcased the extensive development of Australian aquaculture over the last 30 years and previewed future expansions.
Of note, the information session on inland saline aquaculture in Australia also provided a comprehensive overview of the historic, and current research undertaken. This session highlighted the challenges and achievements encountered in this sector in an Australian context. Additionally, the session also offered an international perspective, focusing on the successful implementation of key research outcomes derived from collaborative research conducted by Australian and Indian researchers. The discussion was particularly engaging, with participants actively exploring prospects and potential directions for the development of inland saline aquaculture in Australia.
Another session on regulation in the aquaculture industry, chaired by Ian Dutton, featured an informative presentation by South Australian policy makers. They highlighted the successes of their approach to aquaculture policy, emphasising how it has instilled confidence in the industry and is leading to substantial expansion opportunities.
Other key highlights from the conference included:
- Hamish McDonagh-Aiken ESG Lead at Xenith Consulting, speaking about climate finance disclosures. This presentation also showcased FRDC’s climate research and information.
- Honorary Professor at the Technological University of Mar de Tamaulipas Bicentennial, Roy Palmer, receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award from the World Aquaculture Society.
- The FRDC-supported, International Tropical Rock Oyster Workshop that brought a broad range of stakeholders together to discuss the status, current knowledge, opportunities, and challenges of Tropical Oyster (Crassostrea belcheri) aquaculture, research and development.
- An interactive stand developed by Northern Territory Fisheries and showcasing work from Darwin Aquaculture Center including oysters, Black Jewfish and Barramundi in various stages of development.
- Women in Seafood Australasia (WISA) hosting a ‘Breaking the Barriers’ workshop to explore critical issues impacting women in aquaculture and exploring some of the tangible solutions that could be implemented. WISA also launched the Turn the Tide mentoring program at the FRDC stand.
- Delegates interacted with representatives from over 100 national and international organisations and companies that participated in the trade show.
FRDC hosted a booth at the conference, providing a space to educate, inform, and interact with FRDC staff and delegates.
FRDC Managing Director, Dr Patrick Hone, estimated that over 50% of the booth holders at the trade show were Australian.
“The growth of technology support companies has been one of the great success stories in Australia, with many of these companies now selling their products to over 30 countries.” Patrick says.
President of the World Aquaculture Society, Jennifer Blair, sees a very positive future for Aquaculture in Australia.
“The Conference delivered on the theme of ‘supporting strength in aquaculture’, with Australia being seen as a strong global player in product quality and innovation for aquaculture.” Jennifer said.
“There was also a core people element throughout the conference, with some delegates reigniting connections after a decade, along with evidence of an increase in training programs and capacity in the aquaculture space.”
FRDC was also pleased to sponsor guests from the Yagbani Aboriginal Corporation, Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation, and Oysters Australia with tickets to the event, providing delegates with a chance to discover the broad range of themes and experiences available within aquaculture.
FRDC was honoured to be involved with and sponsor WAC 2023, and we thank all organisers and sponsors involved for delivering such a successful event.
This relates to R&D Plan Outcomes 1,2 & 5
