Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) Board members and staff have helped raise the profile of Zenadth Kes (Torres Strait) and build industry connections at the nation’s leading seafood industry conference, Seafood Directions (28-30 July).

The delegation to Sydney included Fisheries Advisory Committee Chair, TSRA Portfolio Member for Fisheries and Member for Boigu Dimas Toby, who participated in a range of presentations, workshops and networking activities.

He said the conference provided valuable views on developments happening across the broader Australian seafood industry.

“It was a great opportunity to learn from others in the sector and we look forward to bringing back ideas that could benefit Torres Strait fisheries and our fishing communities across Zenadth Kes,” Mr Toby said.

The event brought together global seafood industry leaders, fishers, researchers, government representatives to discuss opportunities and challenges facing the fisheries sector, including in Australia.

It also showcased innovative ways of working including new technologies, sustainability initiatives and partnerships used by industry.

TSRA Assistant Portfolio Member for Fisheries and Member for Masig Simon Naawi said the conference shared new ideas and success stories from across Australia and the world.

“The conference showed there are many new opportunities for our fishers and seafood industry if we are willing to innovate, adapt and strive to be among the best in the world,” Mr Naawi said.

Highlights included hearing directly from Commonwealth Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins MP about the importance of Australia’s seafood industry and the continued focus on supporting sustainable and profitable fisheries.

The conference provided extensive networking opportunities to connect with industry stakeholders, share experiences and build relationships towards future opportunities for fisheries across Zenadth Kes.

TSRA’s participation aimed to help keep the region’s fisheries in the loop on the latest industry developments, market opportunities and trends to support sustainable growth of the region’s seafood sector.

Learnings will help inform future discussions and ideas towards supporting local fishers thrive through economic empowerment and the long-term success of fisheries in Zenadth Kes.

Learn more at www.tsra.gov.au or follow TSRA on Facebook.