Salmon industry appoints new boss in united front for the future

Tasmania’s three major salmon farmers are back on good terms after working co-operatively to appoint a new head of the industry association.

Andrew Gregson has returned to Tasmania to head up the Tasmanian Salmon Growers Association. Picture: NIKKI DAVIS-JONES

TASMANIA’S three major salmon farmers are back on good terms after working co-operatively to appoint a new boss of the industry association.

Tasmanian-born Andrew Gregson has returned to the state after spending 12 years interstate and overseas to head up the Tasmanian Salmon Growers Association.

He will replace Adam Main in the chief executive role. Dr Main will remain with the TSGA as co-ordinator of research and innovation.

Tassal, Huon Aquaculture and Petuna each had representatives on the panel that appointed Mr Gregson.

“My appointment to the role is a symbol the three companies are back together,” Mr Gregson said.

“I do understand a little of that past history and it is past history — the three companies are all represented on the board of the association.

“All are united in the association’s aims of engaging with the Tasmanian community and understanding how we can all grow better together.”

When asked how he plans to combat those opposed to salmon farm expansion or salmon farming altogether, he said it was about transparency, openness, accountability and honesty.

Mr Gregson’s last position was based in Moscow and Amsterdam as global director of corporate and legal affairs for e-vapour products for a London-listed multinational company.

“As a salmon industry we need to not only talk but also to listen, to understand what the community wants in order for the salmon farming industry to grow in a sustainable fashion,” he said.

Tassal CEO Mark Ryan. Picture: SAM ROSEWARNE

Petuna CEO Ruben Alvarez. Picture: LUKE BOWDEN

Tassal chief executive Mark Ryan said he was looking forward to a new level of united community engagement.

“The TSGA will co-ordinate many initiatives between its members, centred on transparency and consultation — Andrew has our full support,” he said.

Petuna CEO Ruben Alvarez said the appointment brought community relations and engagement expertise to the industry, which would be critical in “understanding the concerns and expectations of the Tasmanian community”.

“Petuna is excited about this new era for our industry… investing in industry-wide research and innovation to ensure we can all farm responsibly and grow sustainably,” he said.

TSGA chairman Chris Dockray said it was delighted to gain Mr Gregson’s international experience.

Huon Aquaculture said it was fantastic to gain someone with Mr Gregson’s knowledge and experience in engaging communities.