The Australian Southern Bluefin Tuna Industry Association (ASBTIA) represents the Australian SBT industry. The Team at ASBTIA are leaders in the seafood industry, professionals in the areas of industry advocacy, fisheries and resource management, research and science leaders, connected across government, community and industry, and drive future focused outcomes for the Australian SBT industry.
Daniel was appointed CEO of the Australian Southern Bluefin Tuna Industry Association in 2023. Daniel has a lifelong connection to primary industries and the seafood industry, growing up in a commercial fishing family, and after completing a fisheries science degree he has worked in fisheries research, extension, policy and program management roles in government, higher education and directly with industry. Daniels extensive executive leadership roles, combined with industry connections, afford a unique insight into the importance of strong partnerships, governance and strategic foresight, underpinned by good science, data and decision making. You can get in touch with Daniel via ceo@asbtia.org or 0427 601 316.
Kirsten holds a degree in Natural Resource Management, and went on to do a Graduate Diploma and Masters Degree in Aquaculture. Kirsten worked for the tuna industry since 1994, primarily to establish baseline health information (SBT haematology, clinical chemistry, pathology, histology, histopathology, parasitology). This portfolio expanded to cover aspects of environmental monitoring (mostly from a risk to fish perspective, but also regulatory); refining production systems and farming operations; nutrition (ration size, type and feeding strategies, baitfish nutritional profiles); thermodynamics (SBT are unique amongst fish as they maintain their body temperature above the water temperature); net biofouling (impact and mitigation); chemical and heavy metal residue surveys of SBT (both regulatory and for market). You can get in touch with Kirsten via kirsten@asbtia.org
Kantoa joined the ASBTIA research team as an assistant in 2024, is eager to learn and be involved in all aspects of SBT aquaculture. Kantoa’s journey into this fascinating field began with a strong foundation in Marine Biology, which he pursued during his bachelor’s degree. Throughout his academic career, he’s been captivated by the intricate ecosystems of marine environments and the pivotal role aquaculture plays in both conservation and food security. He is eager to contribute to the ongoing development and responsible management of aquatic resources, driven by a commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation in the field of marine sciences. You can get in touch with Kantoa via kantoa@asbtia.org
