1000 healthy, home-grown barramundi fingerlings have been released into the Fitzroy River as part of Rockhampton State High School's aquaculture program, which is proudly sponsored by Rockhampton Regional Council through Advance Rockhampton.
The grow-out program sees students learn the fundamentals of aquaculture while raising the fingerlings, before tagging them and releasing them into the river at 35cm in length.
At this size, they will have a much higher chance of survival and will be better able to assist in providing a positive impact on the Fitzroy River ecosystem.
The fingerlings were raised at the school's state-of-the-art, industry-standard facility Aquaculture Centre, which opened in 2024.
Under the guidance of teachers Collis Holloway and Josh McCall students have immersed themselves in the science and practice of aquaculture learning to grade, measure, and monitor fish growth and behaviour.
The Rockhampton Region is home to Queensland's largest aquaculture development areas and is poised to be a major aquaculture hub close to major transport and logistic options.
Aquaculture is expected to play a pivotal role in providing the world's protein needs as the global population rises, and the Rockhampton Region has the facilities and environment to support the farming of a range of fish and aquatic plants.
The program aims to release up to 3,000 barramundi fingerlings each year, supporting local tourism and incentivising students to take up careers within this growing industry.
This innovative program is proudly supported by Rockhampton Regional Council through Advance Rockhampton.
Quotes attributable to Mayor Tony Williams:
"As someone who spends plenty of time casting a line in the Fitzroy, I know firsthand how important it is to look after our river and the iconic barramundi that call it home.
"This program is a brilliant example of what happens when education, industry, and community come together. We get real opportunities and real results.
"By investing in skills and aquaculture, we're making sure the next generation has the tools to grow an industry that's as strong as a barra on the line.
"The data collected through this initiative helps researchers better understand barramundi behaviour, breeding, and the health of our ecosystem, and that benefits everyone who loves this river.
"Supporting programs like this ensures we're not just fishing for today, but preparing for a thriving future."
