Stars of the NT seafood industry recognised in awards

The stars of the NT seafood industry were celebrated and honoured for their accomplishments at the 2024 awards. Check out the winners.

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July 24, 2024 - 5:30AM

All winners bottom row L to R Donna English, Rachel Mara, Joanne Butterworth-Gray, Toni Hedditch, Tim Green. Second row L to R Claire Streten, Natasha Stacey, Katherine Winchester, Fran Davis, Sophie Dyer, Norm Hedditch.

The NT Seafood Industry Council celebrated its 2024 Awards, honouring the remarkable achievements, innovations, and dedication of the many people who work hard in the seafood industry.

More than 100 attendees celebrated the success of the local seafood industry, while enjoying a selection of exquisite seafood dishes.

Wild-caught Barramundi and Mud Crab croquettes, bourbon smoked Territory King Threadfin, and vodka-cured Humpty Doo Barramundi were served industry members caught up.

Northern Territory Seafood Council chair Joanne Butterworth-Gray said the industry continues to demonstrate resilience despite ongoing challenges.

“It is inspiring to witness the industry come together to honour the individuals and businesses whose achievements strengthen our community,” she said.

Guests were thrilled to see the former Seafood Council’s Chief Executive, Katherine Winchester awarded the Industry Ambassador Award.

Research Development and Extension Award L to R Natasha Stacey, Donna English, Katherine Winchester, Claire Streten and Simon Harries.

Katherine’s passion for the seafood industry, has left an enduring impact on the Seafood Council and the wider industry through her visionary leadership and unwavering dedication.

The industry continues to face challenges, including workforce shortages, unclear government policies, uncertainty about access to fishing grounds, and increased business costs.

However, initiatives like Humpty Doo Barramundi’s, award winner of the People Development, ‘Scale ‘Em Up’ training program, are leading the way in developing the next generation of seafood professionals.

This program helps young people experience different roles within the seafood business, from production to administration, while completing their final year studies at school.

The Research, Development, and Extension Award went to the “Professional Fishers’ Knowledge to Inform Research and Management of Sawfish and River Sharks” project.

Northern Australia is one of the few places in the world with sawfish and river shark populations, faces challenges in managing these species due to limited knowledge.

Health and Safety Award L to R Michael O'Brien, Fran Davis and Toni Hedditch.

The Seafood Council partnered with researchers from Charles Darwin University, the Australian Institute of Marine Sciences, and the Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods.

The collaborative efforts not only enhanced scientific knowledge but also fostered stronger relationships between researchers and the fishing community.

This Our Marine Parks Grant project received funding from the Australian Government.

The North Marine Parks Network is valued for high species diversity and globally significant populations of internationally threatened species, like sawfish.

Winners of the Awards will have the opportunity to represent the Northern Territory on a national stage, with automatic nomination into the Australian Seafood Industry Awards.

To learn more visit: www.ntsc.com.au