Huon Aquaculture : Fish loss investigations

Following extensive internal investigations including multiple discussions with on-water crew, analysis of vessel movements and assessment of works plans, the recent net tear at one of our pens in Storm Bay was most likely caused during net cleaning operations.

The initial uncertainty around the cause was due to inconsistent GPS data about the location of vessels near the lease.

It is always regrettable when fish are lost; every farmer wants to protect their livestock as well as the environment in which they farm.

We are reassured this incident has a valid explanation.

At the time of the incident, we were unclear as to the cause as information to hand did not readily identify a valid operational cause.

Net cleaning is a complex task, with crew working with multiple pieces of equipment including generators, electrical and mechanical pressure pump systems, high and low voltage motors and associated parts.

We have implemented a range of actions to strengthen our operational processes including the installation of ROV cameras on every net cleaning vessel and additional equipment training.

The cause of the fire at a pen in the Lower Channel remains inconclusive so further investigations are underway.

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To be attributed to 'Huon Aquaculture Spokesperson'