The Queensland Seafood Marketers Association (QSMA) hosted its highly anticipated Queensland Seafood awards ceremony, honouring outstanding achievements and contributions within the Queensland seafood industry. The event was held at Rydges South Bank in Brisbane on 15 March. The Event brought together industry leaders, stakeholders, and supporters to celebrate excellence in Queensland seafood marketing, production, research, and advocacy.
As the premier event of Queensland’s seafood calendar, the awards ceremony highlighted the dedication, innovation, and commitment of individuals and businesses across various sectors of the seafood industry. Attendees were treated to an evening of recognition, networking, and celebration, showcasing the vibrancy and vitality of Queensland’s seafood community.
Among the distinguished guests was the Honourable Minister Furner, whose presence underscored the government’s continued support in driving economic growth and sustainability in Queensland.
The award winner’s ceremony featured several categories, each honouring excellence in specific areas of the Queensland Seafood Industry.
Queensland Seafood Award winners
Large Business Award: Independent Seafood Producers (ISP) was recognised for its commitment to growth, innovation, customer satisfaction, and industry advocacy.
Primary Producer Award: Australian Prawn Farms received accolades for its innovative aquaculture practices, commitment to sustainability, and excellence in product delivery.
Small Business Award: Little Tuna was celebrated for its remarkable growth, dedication to quality and sustainability, and innovative marketing strategies.
Research, Development and Extension Award: Tuna Australia for its pioneering research efforts and innovative solutions addressing critical industry priorities, particularly in tuna longline fishing.
Health and Safety Award: Tuna Australia’s innovative research and development initiatives were recognised for its significant contributions to enhancing safety within the tuna longline fishing sector.
Environment Award: Ridley Agriproducts received acclaim for its groundbreaking fish-free feed, contributing to sustainable prawn production and environmental stewardship.
People Development Award: Austral Fisheries – Austral Academy for its commitment to cultivating the next generation of seafood industry professionals through education, mentorship, and sustainability initiatives.
Promotion Award: Umar Nguyen, known as ‘The Fish Girl,’ was honoured for her exceptional dedication and innovation in promoting seafood and enhancing the public profile of the industry.
Restaurant Award: Salt House in Cairns, recognizes Salt House’s unwavering commitment to excellence in seafood dining, setting a benchmark for quality and sustainability within the industry.
Fish & Chip Award: Fisheries on the Spit in Mooloolaba for its unwavering commitment to quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction in serving up the finest fish and chips.
Queensland Industry Ambassador Award: Nick Shulz was celebrated for his remarkable contributions and enduring legacy within the seafood industry.
Young Achiever Award: Sienna Green for her significant contributions to the industry at a young age, showcasing passion, dedication, and leadership.
“The QSMA extends its congratulations to all award winners and expresses gratitude to attendees, sponsors, judges, and organisers for their invaluable support in making the event a remarkable success.”