Dr WOODRUFF – Minister, I have a couple of questions about the expansion of the smolt hatchery at Whale Point in the Huon. Huon Aquaculture is proposing to intensify their production there from 500 tonnes to 786 tonnes standing biomass at any one time, and they’re proposing to increase a maximum standing biomass of 1446 tonnes by adding an extra 660 tonnes of capacity.
Can you please tell me whether the government will be subsidising this expansion and, if so, to what extent, and what the timeline you understand there will be for the expansion of that finfish industry in the Huon?
Mr ABETZ – As far as I’m concerned, no request has been made to government for any support in that area. These proposals have to go through the normal development applications to the local Huon council, et cetera, so it’ll be step by step. That said, you can be assured that we are encouraged that there is a growing demand for Tasmanian‑grown salmon that has led to this announcement of further investment in the sector. This is based on the confidence that they have in being able to provide this quality seafood in circumstances where demand is there. They’re willing to make the investment, and it’s a private investment.
Dr WOODRUFF – On the impacts of the salmon industry on native animals and wildlife in Tasmania, can you please tell me how many native birds have been shot by the salmon industry since the beginning of this calendar year? What weapon or implement is used by the industry to shoot native birds?
Can you also tell me whether there have been any conversations between the government and salmon companies about changing their farming practices to prevent further bird shootings and to notify boaters about shooting operations as they occur? This happened recently, for example, at the Coningham lease where 50 cormorants were shot but there was no notice to mariners about that.
Mr ABETZ – Could I invite you to ask that question of Minister Howlett in the appropriate Estimates hearings? That’s not within my purview as minister.
Dr WOODRUFF – It is a question about the impacts on the industry.
CHAIR – Mr Garland?
