annual report 13th 2001

8/14/2019 Annual Report 13th 2001

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13th

ANNUAL REPORT

OF THE

AQUACULTURE COUNCIL OF WESTERN

AUSTRALIA(INC)

FOR THE YEAR

1ST JULY 2000 TO 30TH JUNE 2001.

ACWAs Mission.

TO CREATE A SECURE ENVIRONMENT FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A SUSTAINABLE

AQUACULTURE INDUSTRY


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Significant Issues and Trends.

The Western Australian aquaculture industry is soon to become a major contributor to rural andregional areas within the State. ACWA has been recognized as a major influence to ensure that theGovernments investment in aquaculture development is realized in the best possible timeframe.

ACWA has continued its role in promoting the industry and future investments. This is in light ofpublic and regional community concerns with aquaculture development and its possible environmentalimpact.

Such issues have encouraged ACWA to evaluate environmental agreements with State and Federalagencies in order to cooperatively develop the industry based on ecologically sustainable practices. It ishoped that the funding application to environment Australia will be known by July 2001. This is a$290,000 initiative with $92,000 in cash being provided by EA and the balance by ACWA in years twoand three.

The fishing and aquaculture industries are facing significant issues in the area of environmentalmanagement within their management plans from external sources such as changes to the FederalGovernment environmental legislation.

Access security impacted by the introduction of marine protected areas, native title claims and coastaldevelopments require an industry coordinated approach to maximize outcomes and develop communityacceptance for continued industry access to aquaculture sites. Resource sharing between users groupshas been identified by industry as a major issue for consideration and resolution over the next fiveyears.

Food standards and emergency recall procedures continue to be developed by the industry.

Finance and legislative changes for taxation and industrial relations issues will require an industry wideapproach to ensure compatibility with the industry practices.

ACWA continues to drive a formal and constructive relationship between industry and the StateGovernment and Federal Governments.

Production of the Groundwater Atlas is nearly completed and ready for launch at the organizationsAGM.


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OUTPUT 1. GENERAL OPERATIONS

Output Description:To operate an organisation that is cost effective and provides a professional level of services to themembers of ACWA in line with industry policies and objectives.

Output Measures

Administer the finances of ACWA through a Finance sub-committee that meets monthly.

Office management, budgets and finance for ACWA.

Service ACWA Board of Directors, sub-committees and any other major industry meetings.

Dissemination of information via the industry magazine ACWA NEWS.

Access funding to ensure ACWA is only just financial to meet its commitments to industry.ACWA is currently operating on a budget of approximately $138,000. Approximately 62%comes from the DBIF and the balance from industry.

A financially viable industry organisation.

Dissemination of information back to industry.

Improvement in the image of the aquaculture industry. Reduction in the risk of importation of diseases.

Major Achievements 2000/01

Effectively financed and managed the organization.

Produced quarterly publication of industry newsletter. This magazine provides informationtransfer.

Representation on appropriate committees, both State and Federal (Australian ShellfishSanitation Advisory Committee (ASSAC), Fish Import, Chemical Registration, AdvisoryCommittee, Dampier/ Cape Preston Marine Reserve Advisory Committee, NationalAquaculture Council, Fish Health Management Committee, National Aquaculture Action

Agenda). Provide information on import risk assessment in regard to the importation of prawns,

aquaculture feeds, ornamentals, freshwater crayfish, etc.

Resolve issues imposed by the European Union on the shellfish industry.

Develop new industry networks: Aridland Aquaculture Association, Ornamentals FishProducers Association.

Progress theft of stock issues

Resolve abalone aquaculture guidelines.

Assist with national aquaculture training conference.

Facilitate FRDC projects in aquaculture: Sponges, soft corals: International Association ofAstacology conference: National Mussel Initiative.

Resolve issues relating to chemical registration.

Maintain registration of esfenvalarate on behalf of industry.

Facilitate workshops on marketing issues concerning aquaculturists.

Assist with the second Mussel Festival.

Resolve issues relating to spraydrift and aquaculture.

Completed the Animal Welfare Guidelines as they relate to aquaculture.

Continue to administer the WA Shellfish Quality Assurance Programme on behalf of theindustry in Cockburn Sound


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Assist FWA promote the Broome Aquaculture Park.

Represent industry in resolving fish health issues such as zoning, surveillance and monitoring,diagnostic priorities.

Attempt to resolve issues with DOLA relating to EOI Policy. Finalise policy.

Pursue assistance from environment Australia on implementation of EnvironmentalManagement Systems.

Develop a website for the organization with associated sites for industry associations. Develop an insurance package for the industry.

Hold an investment seminar for industry developers and financiers.

Progress the development of a groundwater atlas for those wishing to develop aquacultureinland.

Organise the annual FRDC abalone subprogramme annual workshop.

Organise the annual yabby workshop at Narrogin to transfer research outcomes and prioritisenew projects.

Provide industry input to the locust spraying programme and advise industry and governmenton its options.

Develop levy options paper with FWA to fund ACWA. This includes business rules.

Completed FRDC audit on projects with a successful outcome. Develop AQUAPAK insurance policy.

Major Initiatives 2001/02

Produce quarterly publication of industry newsletter.

Develop levy options paper with FWA to fund ACWA. This includes business rules.

Resolution of resource access issues, including tenure arrangements.

Continue to develop AQUAPAK insurance policy.

Work in partnership with Government on industry issues, e.g. legislation, regulations, licensefees, terms of tenure and translocation policy, and issues involving theft of stock and trespass.

Provide licensing advice to industry. Notify industry of applications. Submissions to agencies on matters affecting industry (marine parks, capital works

programmes).

Resolve payment options for site rehabilitation.

Finalise EU issues regarding shellfish exports.

Attend to fish health zoning.

Address relating to chemical registration.

Assist with the third Mussel Festival.

Resolve issues relating to spraydrift and aquaculture. Develop a code of practice betweenstakeholders.

Continue to administer the WA Shellfish Quality Assurance Programme on behalf of the

industry in Cockburn Sound Continue to develop a website for the organization with sites for industry associations.

Organise an investment seminar for industry developers and financiers.

Organise a conference for those interested in developing aquaculture projects.

Complete the development of a groundwater atlas for those wishing to develop aquacultureinland.

Complete the initial development of the aquaculture portal.



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Representation on appropriate committees, both State and Federal (Australian ShellfishSanitation Advisory Committee (ASSAC), Fish Import, Chemical Registration, AdvisoryCommittee, Dampier/ Cape Preston Marine Reserve Advisory Committee, NationalAquaculture Council, Fish Health Management Committee, National Aquaculture ActionAgenda).

OUTPUT 2: GOVERNMENT CONSULTATION AND ORGANISATION

Output Description

Community awareness on industrys commitment to aquaculture and the environment.

ACWA developing website with the prospect of an aquaculture portal for the State.

Improved community awareness in regard to the consequences of the theft of aquaculture stock.

ACWA has been requested to comment on all translocation applications that are made to FWA.

Licence applicants that have a better understanding that is required from them in applying for alicence and general requirements of various agencies in regard to their respective legislation.

Provide input to the Integrated Fisheries Management Review process.

Output Measure Less costs imposed upon industry.

Aquaculture Licence Applications. All applications are sent to ACWA for comment as part ofthe consultation process. ACWA has been requested by the Minister for Fisheries to ensure thatthose persons or companies affected by licence applications are notified in order to assist in theconsultation process.

Dissemination of applications to industry. Collate responses and submit comments to the FWA.

Circulation of applications to the ACWA Executive. Collate comments and respond to theFWA.

Consultation with industry.

All statements of decision in regard to licence applications and translocation are referred back

to ACWA for review. Legislative amendments to FRMA: ACWA has been advised that some time in the near future it

will be requested to recommend proposed changes to the current legislation.

Ministerial Guidelines on Aquaculture Leases: These guidelines are being developed inconjunction with industry.

Guidelines for farmers to assess the minimum performance of their operations.

Administer industry promotion through the ACWA industry profile sub-committee.

Provide information to community groups throughout the State.

Ensure ACWA can be contacted through the public services.

Advertise the availability of ACWA NEWS to the general public.

Utilise the media services. Promote the industry throughout all levels of the education system.

Respond to community inquiries on a day-to-day basis.


Visit regions and discuss issues affecting industry.

Provide an effective newsletter - ACWA NEWS.

Ensure appropriate education packages in regard to the industry are available to the community.

Represent industry at the national level on various organisations.


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Better informed community on aquaculture issues.

Provide input to the Gene Technology Legislation.

Provide input to the Barramundi translocation guidelines.

The ADC has approved funding for ACWA to that involve a range of projects.

Major Initiatives 2001/02 Continue to develop promotion opportunities including, displays, Web Site,

Produce an industry literature promotional package for the general public.

Resolve issues relating to theft of stock. Clarify legislation for industry.

Finalise aquaculture lease conditions.

OUTPUT 3: AQUACULTURE MANAGEMENT AND COST RECOVERY.

Output Description

Co-ordination of industry across all cost recovery processes such as the WA Shellfish qualityAssurance Programme(WASQAP), National residue Survey(NRS), and chemical registration).

Support industry in the adoption of self-management through the appropriate mechanisms e.g.MACs.

Liaise with Government agencies on appropriate fees for licencing and other services over thelong term particularly as they relate to the funder, purchasor, provider model.

Output Measure

ACWA has provided the administrative support for the national residue survey programme tothe industry.

Compliance with State and national requirements with food standards.

Development of environmental management systems within selected industries. Compliance to the dive code.


An improved quality assurance programme within industry. Compliance to the national NRSprogramme.

Provide excellent services to industry organizations in the form of executive support.


Equitable arrangements across the industry regarding aquaculture leases.

Explore the opportunity to rise a levy across industry to support R&D, IT requirements, fundingof ACWA.

Contribute to the national fish health management committee to determine industrys role in thesurveillance and monitoring programme. Also to watch the application of zoning and itsimplications to industry development.

Establish a workable process for participation in the national residue programme now thatlevies have been terminated.

Review and disseminate the dive code.

Road Test the AQUAPAK insurance package.


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Development of environmental management systems within selected industries.

OUTPUT 4: RESOURCE SHARING

Output Description

To maintain a legislative environment for ongoing access to resources for aquaculture. The

scope of resource sharing to include; tenure, native title, planning, access to broodstock andfunding for aquaculture development in Western Australia.

Address issues relating to aquaculture planning, particularly in reference to management plans.

Ensure aquaculture is an equitable user of the marine and terrestrial resources.

Output Measures

Liaise with all relevant groups concerning legislation and policy issues.

Participate in all forums where aquaculture is affected by resource sharing and equity issues.

Maintain representation on the WAFIC Resource Access sub-committee.

Review of aquaculture legislation within the competition policy framework as it relates toaquaculture.

Aquaculture to be identified as a legitimate user of marine reserves. Clear processes identified to industry in regard to licencing, tenure and general activities within

marine reserves.

Assist in the development of a marine planning process that takes into consideration the needsof the aquaculture industry.

An improved process for licence applicants to resolve native title issues.

Long term access to broodstock for a sustainable aquaculture industry.

Improved awareness of the community of the impact of chemical spraying on aquaculturefacilities.

Appropriate recognition of aquaculture within marine park management plans as a rightful user.

Develop guidelines for aquaculturists in relation to native title procedures.


The Executive Director participated on the Jurien Marine Reserve AdvisoryCommittee(JMRAC) and the Dampier Marine Reserve Advisory Committee.

ACWA has progressed the Lease Guidelines with the FWA.

Progress the Policy Guidelines on the industrys access to broodstock.

Resolved issues concerning the Expression Of Interest Process adopted by the Government andin particular Department of Land Administration.

Attended charter boat meetings in Broome.

Major Initiatives 2001/02 The Executive director will participate on the Dampier Archipelago/ Preston Point Marine

Reserve Advisory Committee

Resolve the Lease Guidelines for industry.

Complete document in conjunction with WAFIC on how aquaculturists can progress throughthe native title issues.

Attend Esperance conference on marine coastal planning and deliver a paper on behalf of theaquaculture industry.


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OUTPUT 5: NETWORKING

Output DescriptionTo assist regional and industry groups to formalise Associations to represent their interests.

Output Measures

Access resources to conduct networking activities. Assist groups through the incorporation process and inform them of the

fundamentals in establishing and running their organisation.

Attend national industry meetings when appropriate.

Provide executive support to industry associations on a fee for service basis.

Conduct appropriate workshops/seminars/conferences as requested by industry.

Represent particular state based industry groups at national meetings (e.g. National FreshwaterCrayfish).

A better networked national industry addressing the most relevant issues.

An organisation that will improve its service to the industry.

A properly focussed industry support service sector.

A supported web site with hits on the appropriate sectors. Survey industry opinion on their needs and how ACWA can meet them.


Represents the Western Australian aquaculture industry on this national peak industry body.

Production of a national industry yearbook.

ACWA has agreed to S Bennison continuing to provide the service of independent chairpersonto the Yabby Producers Association and also to provide executive support to the association.

Attended the Aridland Aquaculture Association meeting in Leonora.

Form the Ornamental Fish Producers Association.

Attend Western Inland Fisheries workshop in Northam. Complete industry survey and present outcomes to AGM.

Attend workshop of Western Inland Fisheries.

Upgrade ACWA NEWS and ensure its relevance to the client base.

Obtained FRDC and ADF funding to hold International Association of Astacology meeting inPerth.

Silver Perch Association

Continue to provide executive support.

Hold a workshop to explore options for forming a cooperative.AMWING Pearl Producers Association.

Two day workshop held during the year with international guests in collaboration with FWA.

Assistance provided with the FWA to ensure the ongoing registration of Pinctada albina andPteria penguin for export.

ACWA continues to provide executive support to this recently formed organisation.WA Abalone Aquaculture Association:

Provide executive support to the association.

FRDC Aquaculture sub-programme: Provide the link between the subprogramme and industry.

Review research and set new priorities through an annual workshop.



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Yabby Producers Association

Facilitate industry input to the locust spraying programme.

Continue to provide executive support.

Organise industry workshop to present R&D and prioritise new directions.WA Mussel Producers Association

ACWA provided the Executive support for the association. Major activities included the access

to new licenced areas at Southern Flats. ACWA continued to administer the WA Shellfish Quality Assurance Programme on behalf of

the farmers in Cockburn and Warnbro Sound.National Aquaculture CouncilParticipate in this forum to drive national issues.


Establish an ornamental fish association.

Establish an effective web site to service the various industry sectors.

Implement the industry communication strategy.

Attend the various industry association meetings.

OUTPUT 6: QUALITY ASSURANCE

Output Description

To ensure the industry establishes and maintains best practices wherever possible.

Improved quality within the aquaculture industry.

Improved marketing opportunities for the shellfish industry. A QA programme that isrealistically affordable and relevant.

Output Measures

Liaise with the relevant agencies and the media in regard to quality assurance on behalf of

industry organisations. Assist industry in accessing financial support to develop codes of practice/ethics.

Participate in appropriate working groups to formulate codes of practice, quality assurance andHazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) Programmes.

Through cross membership of the Seafood Training Australia management committee andinvolvement in the work of Seafood Training Australia strong links have been developed whichwill enable the development of a cohesive consistent set of competency standards in relation tofood safety and food quality in the seafood industry.

Improved marketing opportunities for the shellfish industry. AQA programme that isrealistically affordable and relevant.

Assist WASQMI to organise industry workshops.

Actively participate as an organisation in SQMI activities.

Provide representatives on SQMI.

Include regular features by SQMI in ACWA NEWS.

Develop an emergency response plan with industry and authorities.

Improved quality within the aquaculture industry



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Food Safety Emergency Management Planning continues to be an on-going activity for ACWA

WA Seafood Quality Management InitiativeAssist WASQMI to organise industry workshops.Actively participate as an organisation in SQMI activities.

Registration of Chemicals in AquacultureS Bennison was a member of the national taskforce that has been progressing the registration ofchemicals in aquaculture. ACWA applied to the National registration Authority for a Minor Use Permiton behalf of industry for the pesticide Esfenvalerate to be used in the yabby industry for the control ofThelohania. This is maintained by ACWA.

Australian Shellfish Quality Assurance Advisory Committee(ASQAAC)S Bennison is the Western Australian representative on the ASQAA Committee and attends twonational meetings per annum. This group has been critical to the export requirements of the industry.Continue to administer the WA Shellfish Quality Assurance Programme within ACWA on behalf ofWAMPA.Considerable time was spent resolving the issue of the arsenic spill in Cockburn Sound. This createdhavoc in the mussel industry and required extensive liaison with the media, analytical laboratories,government agencies.ACWA continually liaises with ASIC and others on national initiatives concerning food quality. Thismainly relates to the activities of Seafood Services Australia (SSA).Produced, promoted and sold copies of the Yabby Code of Practice

Major Initiatives 2001/02Food Regulation Review

Develop food safety plans relevant to industry sectors as required by the New Food Regulationsdeveloped by ANZFA.

Australian Shellfish Quality Assurance Advisory Committee(ASQAAC)

S Bennison is the Western Australian representative on the ASQAA Committee and attends twonational meetings per annum. This group has been critical to the export requirements of theindustry.

Develop an environmental code of practice for the mussel industry.

Provide executive support to the WA Mussel Producers Association

Develop a framework on a national basis that addresses the registration of chemicals inaquaculture.

OUTPUT 7: EDUCATION & TRAINING

Education and Training Program

Output DescriptionProvide industry with assistance to identify essential training requirements within the aquacultureindustry, including components of operational and risk management, the recognition of opportunitiesand risks and the development of strategies to address such issues through skills, knowledge andtraining.

Output MeasureNational Seafood Industry Training Package:


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Liaise with/visit a minimum of six regional TAFE Colleges to review the content and deliveryaspects of the package.

Consult with at least ten regional-based stakeholders in training to clarify and discussqualifications, creation of career paths and promotional aspects related to the package.

Develop all recommendations for presentation by the Industry Training Advisory Body (ITAB) toSeafood Training Australias formal review of the training package. Achieved; to continue in 01/02

Industry Training Plan (ITP):

Conduct a minimum of six forums with industry/stakeholders in training to gain inputs for theITP.

Conduct at least six forums with Registered Industry Training Organisations to collectinformation for the ITP.

Interview at least twelve trainees to solicit their recommendations on training delivery aspectsfor the ITP.

For validation purposes gain the Aquaculture Council of WAs endorsement of the ITP. (Achieved.)

Revision of the National Standard for Commercial Vessels (NSCV)

Consistent with budgetary limitations, conduct two national level public comment workshops todraft comments on sections of the NSCV. Achieved, finalisation to be completed in 01/02.

National and State ITABs

Maintain WA representation at all national ITAB meetings and provide relevant information tothe State ITAB.

Attend at least two ITAB liaison meetings each year.Be represented at least two meetings of the WAFIC Education and Training/OH&S Sub Committee.Achieved.

Gain representation from all States/Territory at each of the above workshops.

Major Achievements in 2000-2001

Actively participated in the implementation and promotion of the National Seafood IndustryTraining Package with industry, New Apprenticeship Centres, Registered Training Providers,schools and other stakeholders in training.

Submitted an up-graded Industry Training Plan 2002-2004 on 30 April 2001.

Coordinated, on behalf of the Australian Seafood Industry Council (ASIC), State and Territoryresponses to NMSCs initiatives to introduce a National Maritime Safety Strategy.

Continued to represent WA interests on training matters at National/State levels.

In conjunction with Fisheries WAs Seafood Quality Management Initiative, conducted joint

regional workshops throughout WA on training implications arising from pendingAustralia/New Zealand Food Safety Authority regulations affecting food safety.

Involvement in the development of an improved communications policy between the NationalMarine Safety Council and its constituents.

Conducted an Implementation Kit workshop with Industry Training Advisory Body membersand other stakeholders to introduce the National Seafood Industry Training Package in WA.

Provided input into the Review of Traineeships policy, impediments to Traineeships and take-up of Traineeships in WA instigated by the WA Department of Training and Employment.


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Participated in the development of Strategic Leadership competencies for the National SeafoodIndustry Training Package.

Major Initiatives for 2001/2002

1. a. Implementation and formal review of the National Seafood Industry Training Package

due for completion by December 2002.b. Promotion and Liaison for National Seafood Industry Training PackagePromotion and liaison activities associated with the clarification of content, qualificationstructure, assessment and other issues arising from the training package with RegisteredTraining Organisations and WA secondary schools having students studying marine/aquaticsciences and seamanship skills. This phase of implementing the training package should becompleted by no later than December 2002. It will then be subject to normal maintenance anddevelopmental updating.

2. Contribute to annual Aquaculture Industry Training PlanProvision of strategic advice to the WA Department of Training & Employment through theWA Primary Industry Training Council (WAPITC) regarding industrys current and future

education and training needs on a region by region basis (i.e. what the TAFE Colleges areoffering now and what they should be offering in times ahead for our industry) This extent ofthis activity is subject to a current review and restructuring of Industry Training AdvisoryBodies and Industry Training Councils within the WA Department of Training.

4. Port Briefings ProjectA Human Capital Development workshop/seminar project proposal submitted to the FisheriesResearch and Development Corporation (FRDC) to present a series of (five) port briefings toup-grade aquaculturalists knowledge and awareness of contemporary issues, including:

Resource sharing and access;

Ecologically Sustainable Development (ESD);

Regional and specific Management Advisory Committees Value adding and marketing for the WA seafood industry;

Risk management and the NSCV;

Seafood quality assurance and Australian/New Zealand Food Standards and Regulations;

WA Occupational Health and Safety Codes of Practice;

Managing small businesses enterprise.

OUTPUT 8: MARKETING

Output Description

Ensure the aquaculture industry is best served by the availability of relevant marketing

intelligence and the application of dynamic marketing strategies. Greater recognition of Western Australian Aquaculture product within the Australian and

International forum.

To improve the industrys awareness of quality issues as they relate to food products.

Output Measures

Assist industry to access market intelligence service providers.

Assist industry accessing funding programmes to benchmark best practices in marketing on aglobal basis.


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Assist industry to access resources to attend international trade shows and develop marketingstrategies.

Assist industry develop Total Quality Management in all aspects of marketing practices.

Co-ordinate industry participation in the Export Market Development Grant Scheme and similarprogrammes.

Assist industry develop exhibition and general promotional material for Western Australian

aquaculture products. Assist industry develop the necessary export marketing skills to ensure they are world

competitive.

Assistance with the development of marketing strategies.

Assist industry participating in international and domestic trade shows, exhibitions, productpromotions and displays.

Creating new markets and points of difference in regard to Western Australian culturedproducts.

Developing marketing networks for industry.

Participation in the SQMI.

Organise workshops to address industry issues. Provide options on mechanisms to resolve

issues.

Major Achievements for 2000/01

Assist industry develop codes of practice in all aspects of marketing, including HACCP Plans.Mussel industry has participated.

The Minister for Fisheries has created a quality initiative that requires ACWA representation.

Facilitate a workshop on marketing issues within the aquaculture industry.

Direct inquiries to industry representatives.

Address health zoning issues.

Address issues relating to environmental trade barriers.

Address issues raised by the EU and AQIS in regard to the shellfish exports to the EU. Resolve issues of animal welfare by completing a code of practice in animal welfare.


Continue to develop the ACWA web site that assists industry with issues concerning E-commerce.

Make better use of the Trade and Market and Development Initiative.

Host a USA delegation on dumping freshwater crayfish.

OUTPUT 9: RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

Output Description

Assist industry to access the most appropriate and best practices in regard to national andinternational practices.

Promote relevant research and development in the aquaculture industry.

Industry driven research.

Improved productivity and market opportunities.

Transfer of research information to industry.


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Output Measures

Provide feedback to the FRDC on projects concerning aquaculture.

ACWA Board of Directors to review application to FRDC.

Publish relevant R&D information in ACWA NEWS.

Assist industry in accessing appropriate R&D data bases.

Liaise with funding organisations to ensure that R&D Programmes are properly identified andfunded.

Review R&D applications where appropriate, on a state and national basis.

Organise workshops on behalf of industry groups ensuring the R&D needs of industry areaddressed provide an opportunity for research providers to present their findings.

Improved research capabilities in WA.

Improved productivity and market opportunities.

Transfer of research information to industry.

Occupancy of aquaculture parks.

Attendance at industry workshops to ensure transfer of research results.

Major Achievements Resolution of issues concerning translocation of stock.

A national policy framework on the issue of transgenics in aquaculture.

Attended industry workshops(national mussel, silver perch) etc to develop R&D strategies.

Cooperative Research Centre For Aquaculture; Contribute to the application for a finfish CRC.

Assisted with numerous ADF Applications

A workshop for the Yabby Producers Association of WA was held in February. The workshopenabled researchers to present results.

FRDC Applications: ACWA has reviewed a number of FRDC applications. The success rate ofapplications in the round this year has been very good even with projects that received a low

priority from the FRAB.


Groundwater StudyACWA is progressing the mapping of groundwater resources with the FWA for their future use inaquaculture. This is being done through an application to the ADC for funds to:

Collate existing data concerning groundwater availability and quality that may be suitable foraquaculture.

The provision of a data base on which to plan further aquaculture investigations and conductresearch and development activities.

The identification of sites where groundwater parameters is conducive to aquaculture speciessurvival.

Assist in promoting the Broome Aquaculture Park.

OUTPUT 10: ENVIRONMENT


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Output Description

As far as possible, ensure industry develops aquaculture on an environmentally sustainablebasis.

ACWA is responsible for the development of disease emergency response plans for the variousindustry sectors.

A better informed industry and community in regard to the effects of aquaculture on the

environment. Ensuring industry is aware of its environmental obligations.

Public awareness of industrys responsible attitude to the environment.

Assist industry to develop environmental monitoring programmes and related codes of practice.

Liaise with Government agencies on the environmental sustainability of aquaculture, the ESDprocess and development of indicators.

Implement the environmental management framework being developed by NAC.

Ensure a fair and equitable arrangement for industry in regard to the financial maintenance ofenvironmental quality assurance programmes.

Develop public information brochures showcasing the environmentally sustainable aquacultureindustry.

Pursue opportunities offered by Environment Australias(EA) Eco-Efficiency pogramme. Thedetails of this application are available from ACWA to members.

Output Measures

Assist industry to develop environmental monitoring programmes and related codes of practice.

Liaise with Government agencies on the environmental sustainability of aquaculture.

Implement the environmental management framework being developed by the NationalAquaculture Council(NAC).

Ensure a fair and equitable arrangement for industry in regard to the financial maintenance ofenvironmental quality assurance programmes.

Develop public information brochures showcasing the environmentally aquaculture industry.

A better informed community in regard to the effects of aquaculture on the environment.

Disease Emergency Response Planning


ACWA has been closely observing the outcomes of the Review of Agricultural ChemicalSpraying Legislation. ACWA has provided comments on the review documentation and willcontinue to play an active role given the potential impact of on-farm spraying on aquaculturefacilities.

ACWA assisted the Great Southern Aquaculture Association in its successful ADF and FRDCfunding application to evaluate the impact of longline mussel culture over seagrass in King

George Sound, Albany. Apply to Environment Australia to develop environment management systems in aquaculture.


Explore opportunities for WA based industries to participate in ESD case studies.

Explore opportunities for the industry concerning an Eco-Efficiency agreement withEnvironment Australia.

Develop environmental information for the communities and industry at large and post on website.


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Resolve issues facing chemical registration. This being achieved through an FRDC initiative.

Provide extension of the outcomes of research in environmental projects relating to aquaculturethroughout Australia.

Hold meetings and resolve issues of spraydrift. Develop a code of practice. This code will beput on the ACWA website.

OUTPUT 11: OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY

Output Descriptions

Assist the various industry sectors in developing the appropriate occupational health and safetycodes.

Ensure the aquaculture industry addresses the essential legislative requirements of occupationalhealth and safety.

Out put Measures Promote the adoption of Occupational Health and Safety Codes by industry

Aquaculture Industry Diving Code

Diver Training Attend industry meetings to provide information on the Occupational Safety and Health Act , its

application to industry and the importance of developing industry safety codes.

Yabby Code of Practice safety and health guidelines

Gradual development of Aquaculture Industry Safety and Health Code

Industry sector specific sections contained within the Occupational Health and Safety Code.

Industry awareness information through attendance at meetings and site visits.

Development and implementation of industry training and awareness sessions

Provide articles for newsletters and industry forums.


Completion of the dive codes applying to various industry sectors.

Contribution to the Australian Standards SF 17 Committee for the review and development ofStandards relating to Occupational Diving as the Australian Seafood Industry Councilrepresentative.

Progress the OHS code for aquaculture.


Completion of Aquaculture Industry Safety and Health Code

Identify and where necessary initiate research into occupational health and safety issues

OUTPUT 12: EMPLOYMENT AND WORK EXPERIENCE

Output DescriptionEnsure a viable industry offering employment opportunities in rural and regional areas of the State.Where possible assist industry with accessing a qualified workforce that will enhance the production ofaquaculture

Output MeasureACWA engaging work experience people on specific projects.


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Provided a number of students with meaningful projects for work experience.

Direct inquiries for employment to appropriate industry sectors.


Establish the ACWA web site to cater for inquiries and provide links to appropriate sites for thoseseeking employment and work experience.

OUTPUT 123: PROMOTION

Out put Description1. Raise community awareness of aquaculture2. Increase public understanding that aquaculture is a good industry3. Increase support for the aquaculture industry generally and more specifically from Government

agencies and politicians, other industry groups and in particular the commercial and recreationalfishing industries, potential investors, conservation groups, community authorities, etc

4. Provide informed information to both public and commercial sectors on the issues concerningthe industry and the reality of the industrys operations

Output Measures Increased and informed public awareness of what the aquaculture industry does. Increased awareness from the community and interest groups on the benefits of aquaculture and

the issues which affect it. Increased and better informed understanding from the community and interest groups on the

effect aquaculture has on generic issues such as environment, employment and training, socio-economies, food supply, trade potential etc.

Improved acceptance of the status of the industry as a worthwhile investment opportunity inWestern Australia. Increased participation by industry stakeholders to the development ofaquaculture in the State.

Closer collaboration between ACWA, species groups, Government agencies and otherauthorities.

Identification of information gaps where further data is required.


ACWA News

Under the direction of the ACWA Promotions Committee, ACWA News editors and JPS Consulting,ACWA News was redesigned and upgraded to include a full colour cover, more photographs and anupdated layout. This served as the impetus to increase its circulation and provided an ideal tool to betterinform the stakeholders of the activities being undertaken through the Promotion Strategy.Additionally, a promotional flier which was produced to increase the subscription to ACWA News.ACWA has contracted Countryman to publish the magazine. This will be done on a trial basis startingwith the July 2001 issue.

PR Coordinator

Activities completed by the PR coordinator during 2000/01. Further activities will be completed byACWA in the next financial year on a project by project basis.


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Mass Media Campaign

To date, the mass media campaign has achieved significant media coverage for the WA aquacultureindustry as well as the research and initiatives undertaken by Government agencies and researchorganisations.

Television

A significant increase in the number of news and feature stories have been achieved during thepromotion campaign. The food show Western Delights was definitely a success story in this regard.

Radio

Promotion continues in this area.

Newspapers / Magazines

WA and national coverage has been achieved both in metropolitan and country newspapers andmagazines. Regular stories on aquaculture initiatives have highlighted the benefits this industry bringsto WA.

ACWA Website

The new ACWA website www.aquaculturecouncilwa.com continues to be developed. ACWA isawaiting the outcome from Department of Commerce and Trade on its funding application. Money stillexists in the promotion initiative.

Product PromotionsFew promotional events involving products were completed. Industry did participate in Boston andprovided product. It is hoped to participate in television cooking shows during the year of 2001/02

Investment Seminar

This was very successful based on feedback from participants. It is intended to make this an annualevent.


Generic BrochuresThese have yet to be finalised, but will form the basis for the generic presentation kit to be used byindustry spokespersons when delivering presentations to the general community about the WAaquaculture industry.A final list of information to be included in this material is to be prepared.

Schools Info BrochuresAgain, these have yet to be finalised, but will form the basis for the generic presentation kit to be usedby industry spokespersons when delivering presentations to the schools about the WA aquacultureindustry.ACWA Promotion Committee members were asked to review the information available from FWA todetermine what gaps if any exist and therefore provide an outline of what should be included andperhaps attached to the information from FWA.

Aquaculture Communication Strategy

This will provide the basis of the development of a Promotional Calendar for WA Aquaculture,outlining seasonality of specific species and promotional events and activities for which the industry
http://www.aquaculturecouncilwa.com/http://www.aquaculturecouncilwa.com/


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should consider its involvement. Below are some of the specific events at which ACWAcommunicated the aquaculture message to its target groups. It will also define how the right messageswill target the most appropriate audience.

Business & Investment SeminarACWA held a seminar in October that was very successful in promoting the industry although it does

not seem to have translated into projects being funded by financial institutions. A Stragey is beingdeveloped for the industry on how to turn this around.

ACWA NEWS

Future development of this magazine will depend on support from advertisers and subscribers. Thismagazine has been very successful and every effort will be made to ensure its continued success. It is adrain on the resources of ACWA. Must increase circulation.

Parliamentary Aquaculture Week

It is hoped to feature aquaculture products in a display in Parliament House during the second week ofMarch 2002. This will include supplying aquaculture produce to the dining room for lunches during theweek. The objective is to promote the aquaculture industry and various products. A cocktail party willbe hosted by the Minister for Fisheries.

Esperance Conference

ACWA will sponsor a booth at the Coastal Conference in Esperance. The objective is to promote theindustry to local community groups and to Government representatives. It is important to educate thesegroups about the benefits of aquaculture to rural and regional WA and dispel concerns about pollutionand compatibility with other activities.

Website

ACWA is establishing a State portal for aquaculture. All members of ACWA are asked to participate.They will be offered a site for their organization and be able to put together any material they wish. Theannual fee will be in the order of $250 for the first year. ACWA will carry the majority of costs ataround $800 pa. It is looking at sharing the cost amongst its members and getting various forms ofincome through advertising and sponsorship.

ACWA NEWS

Many of the issues are across various sectors. The magazine has been the industrys vehicle to transferinformation. It is important that members support the magazine through advertising, increasingsubscription or just providing articles.

Mussel Festival

This will be expanded into a general aquaculture festival with participants from all sectors. Industrymust take advantage of this venue and promote the industry.


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TABLE 1: Industry Projects to be Conducted in 2001/02

These projects will have to be financed from external sources on a grant basis and are therefore notincluded in the annual operating(recurrent) budgets.

PROJECT BUDGET($) PROJECT DESCRIPTION COMMENT

Eco-Efficiency 100,000 To conduct the Eco-Efficiencyprogramme with EA and pursuevarious initiatives.

This is project to berun over three years.

Groundwater Study 50,000 To complete the groundwaterresources atlas for WA.

Industry Promotion 30,000 This will involve contracting theservices of a person to assist inimproving the image of aquaculturein the State.

This project continuesfrom the previousyear.

Industry Promotion Initiatives to be Completed in 2001/02

EVENT BUDGET ACTIVITY COMMENT

Investment Seminar 5,000 Bring together financial institutionsand proponents of projects

ParliamentaryPromotion

10,000 Inform politicians on theaquaculture industry.

Provide copies ofACWA NEWS

Mussel Festival 5,000 Facilitate participation with

WAMPA

Mussel industry to

fund and ADFapplication.

Media Watch 5,000 Continue to access articles. Part of industrypromotion package

ACRONYMS

ACWA Aquaculture Council of Western AustraliaADC Aquaculture Development Council: This is a ministerial advisory committee, appointed by

the Minister to advise on matters relating to aquaculture (Section 37 of the FRMA).

ADF Aquaculture Development FundANZECC Australia and New Zealand Environment and Conservation CouncilAQIS Australian Quarantine Inspection ServiceASQAP Australian Shellfish Quality Assurance ProgrammeASP Amnesiac Shellfish PoisoningASSAC Australian Shellfish Sanitation Advisory CommitteeASSCP Australian Shellfish Sanitation Control ProgramBRS Bureau of Resource SciencesCALM Conservation and Land Management


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COP Code of PracticeCRC Cooperative Research Centre for AquacultureDBIF Development and Better Interest FundDEP Department of Environmental ProtectionDOF Department of FisheriesDOLA Department of Land Administration

DOT Department of TransportEEC European Economic Community, also European UnionEIS Environmental Impact Study/Statement/SurveyEMS Environmental Management SystemsEPA Environmental Protection AuthorityEPBC Environmental Protection, Biodiversity and Conservation ActESD Ecological Sustainable DevelopmentFAO Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United NationsFHMC Fish Health Management CommitteeFPA Fremantle Port AuthorityFRDC Fisheries Research and Development CorporationGMO Genetically Modified OrganismHDWA Health Department of Western AustraliaHPLC High Power Liquid ChromatographyJMRAC Jurien Marine Reserve Advisory CommitteeKGT Kwinana Grain TerminalNAC National Aquaculture CouncilNATA National Association of Testing AuthoritiesNRS National Residue SurveyPSP Paralytic Shellfish PoisoningQAP Quality Assurance ProgramRFAC Recreational Fishing Advisory CouncilSECC Seafood Export Consultative CommitteeUSFDA United States Food and Drug AdministrationWAAAA Western Australian Abalone Aquaculture AssociationWAFIC Western Australian Fishing Industry CouncilWAMPA Western Australian Mussel Producers AssociationWASQAP Western Australian Shellfish Quality Assurance ProgramWAWA Waterways Authority of Western AustraliaWRC Water and Rivers CommissionYPA Yabby Producers Association


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Financial information provided to Department of Fisheries as part of ACWAs reportingrequirements.

Appropriation and ForwardEstimates

2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 Actuals Budget Forward Forward Forward Forward

Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate $'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 $'000Capital

Total Capital Services 20 4

RecurrentAmount required to fund outputs 148 141 150 155 165 170

Total 168 145 150 155 165 170

Output/Appropriation Summary

2000/01 2001/02 2002/03 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 Actual Budget Budget Forward Forward Forward

Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate $'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 $'000

RECURRENT

Outputs

Corporate Services 148 141 150 155 165 170

Total Net Cost of Outputs 148 141 150 155 165 170

Less Adjustments for non-cash itemsDepreciation

long service leave (LSL)

Total non-cash items

Total Cash Costs of Outputs 148 141 150 155 165 170

less adjustments for cash balances

Opening Balance 0 0 0 0 0 0

Closing Balance 0 0 0 0 0 0

Recurrent Fund Appropriations 148 141 150 155 165 170

add Capital Appropriations

Asset Replacement

Capital Fund Appropriation 20 4

Total Fund Appropriation 168 145 150 155 165 170


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FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR ACWA FOR THE YEAR2000/01

annual report 13th 2001

Documents