Tiddler’s big catch a case of Can-Doo

A FOOD van at Doo Town on the Tasman Peninsula has hooked the award for Tassie’s best fish and chips.

Tas Seafood Awards announced. For best fish and chips Doo Town food van picture of eagle hawk neck residents Phill and Bev Millhouse.

A SMALL food van at Doo Town on the Tasman Peninsula has hooked the award for best fish and chips in Tassie, beating out a sea of bigger fish to claim the coveted title.

Doo-lishus Food, owned by Phil Millhouse and his wife, Bev, was honoured at the fifth biannual Tasmanian Seafood Awards on the weekend.

They said they were surprised at the win, given their operation was small fry in comparison to the larger fish restaurants.

“We’re amazed and humbled,” said Mr Millhouse, who has been involved in the seafood industry for 30 years.

DID THE JUDGES GET IT RIGHT? WHO DO YOU THINK HAS TASSIE’S BEST FISH AND CHIPS. JOIN THE DEBATE BELOW.

His wife Bev established the food van selling ice creams and drinks 17 years ago while he was working as a fisherman.

They expanded and began fish and chips about 12 years ago, and Mr Millhouse credits his dedication to using quality local seafood for the business’s success.

“We don’t skimp on quality, only using first class product,” he said.

“We also use the best oil and change it every day. We cut and crumb the fish ourselves and we cook everything fresh to order so it doesn’t sit in a bain-marie.”

Another peninsula business, Bangor Wine & Oyster Shed, was named the Tasmanian Seafood Industry Council’s 2015 best Small Business Enterprise.

The shed, a partnership between two farming families, was launched in December 2014 in the wake of the devastating Dunalley bushfires.

The thriving business now employs 11 part-time and one full-time staff.

Oysters on the menu are plucked straight from the ocean each morning, just 1km from the restaurant tables, and served in a variety of traditional and innovative ways.

Oyster farmer and co-owner Tom Gray said the award was a great honour.

“I have been growing oysters for other people’s restaurants for 17 years. It is really satisfying to serve them myself and see them being enjoyed and appreciated,” said Mr Gray.

Seafood industry council chief executive Neil Stump said the industry was vibrant and enjoying exciting growth.

“Our industry is recognised worldwide for its world’s best practice, management and sustainability, so the winners are not only the best in Tasmania, but also up there with the best in the world,” Mr Stump said.

The Industry Ambassador Award was presented to marine scientist Colin Buxton for his contribution and commitment to fisheries research in Tasmania.

Local commercial rock lobster fisher Dave Wyatt took out the Environmental Stewardship Award for his long term involvement with the SW Marine Debris Cleanup event.

Flathead Cafe and Fishmongers in South Hobart took out the Restaurant Casual Dining Award.