It’s an exciting time for aquaculture in North Queensland with the first new jobs created at Tassal’s expanded prawn farm north of Proserpine.
The first of 30 construction jobs will be advertised this week, with that number set to grow by up to 100 jobs when the farm reaches peak production.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Mark Furner joined Tassal Australia Head of Engagement Barbara McGregor to mark the milestone and inspect the $30 million development project.
Mr Furner welcomed Tassal’s investment in Queensland as a key step in his vision for Queensland aquaculture.
"It’s my vision to see Queensland become a world leader in aquaculture and projects like this one are an important step in making that happen," Mr Furner said.
"Attracting private sector investment into Queensland has been a priority for our government, and it’s great to see Tassal showing its confidence in the sector.
"Investment in sustainable aquaculture can help us to create good local jobs and strengthen our local economy, creating long term opportunities for the region.
"Tassal’s investment underlines our state’s export reputation, leveraging our diverse climate and technology to develop industry to complement the Reef.
"I’ve met with Tassal in Brisbane to outline my vision for Queensland aqauculture, and I’m impressed with how they are realising their vision to be a leading prawn producer and local employer.
"Ultimately this will mean more jobs in a stronger Queensland economy."
Ms McGregor said Australia’s largest aquaculture producer was pleased to be working in Queensland, with Tassal having a long reputation of supporting regional communities through aquaculture operations.
"This project, once completed, will have the effect of increasing Queensland’s current farmed prawn production by around 50 per cent," Ms McGregor said.
"Locally this means about 30 jobs during construction and 100 new jobs post-construction.
"Our company always has a priority focus on supporting local communities and this is about investing in local people, local resources and local activities."
Ms McGregor said current demand for prawns was around 60,000 tonnes per annum, with imports representing two thirds of the supply and aquaculture just 10 per cent.
"Research is showing home-grown Aussie prawns are a clear preference for consumers," she said.
"Our aim is to develop environmentally sound, technologically advanced farms that enable us to deliver on consumer needs."
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Andrew Wilcox welcomed Tassal’s investment in the region.
"It’ll be fantastic to see these new jobs being advertised and major investment flowing into our beautiful region," he said.
"This is a further source of income for our economy and builds on our reputation as both a tourism and agricultural powerhouse."
"I’m looking forward to working with the Minister and the company as we move forward."
