New Albany aquaculture leader harbours big plans for growing industry

Albany’s potential to lead a State aquaculture boom is looking bright with Jude Tyzack appointed as the new head of WA’s peak aquaculture body. Ms Tyzack has lived in Albany for the past decade, working with the Aquaculture Council of WA since 2018 supporting the Albany Shellfish Hatchery. According to ACWA, aquaculture is the world’s fastest growing food-producing sector and Albany is emerging as a strategic industry hub at the centre of their vision for WA. “My key goal as an Albany local is to see shellfish aquaculture become a key part of this town’s identity — an industry that the local community is proud of and benefits from directly,” she said. “To do this ACWA will continue to work closely with government to ensure aquaculture development is responsible, economically viable and environmentally sustainable. “I will also be working with industry and TAFE to ensure suitable training is available locally so that skilled staff from Albany are ready and available as the industry grows.” Late last year, commercial fishers raised concerns over State Government plans for a 1000ha aquaculture development zone in Albany waters after 500ha was opened in Oyster Harbour. A further 500ha is set to open in Princess Royal Harbour and King George Sound, subject to final approvals. “The release of water as part of the Albany Aquaculture Development Zone is critical to continued development that will really put Albany on the map as one of the country’s top shellfish producing locations,” Ms Tyzack said. “My efforts in the immediate term will be on working with DPIRD to help bring this about as soon as possible.” Ms Tyzack said the ACWA had been working “closely and constructively” with commercial fishers, the WA Fishing Industry Council and DPIRD to find a pathway that would allow aquaculture to develop side by side with commercial fishing activity. “My vision for Albany as a major centre for the production of shellfish includes seafood-based culinary and tourism opportunities that will also hold substantial potential for local fishermen selling their fresh local produce,” she said. “It is a key part of my role to represent the interests of responsible, viable and sustainable aquaculture development so I will continue to act in this capacity and liaise with stakeholders on behalf of the industry.” The ACWA will hold a showcase from 4pm at Due South on March 11 to give the community a taste of the shellfish industry.