The SBT industry has worked tirelessly to recover the population of Southern Bluefin Tuna after years of unregulated fishing. Thunnus maccoyii was listed in the Conservation Dependent category of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) in December 2010. Assessment in 2024 has determined that the species is no longer eligible for inclusion in any category of threatened species and has been removed from the list. Delisting has enabled pursuit of third party certification like Marine Stewardship Council.
Australia’s marine environment, favoured by SBT fisheries are the most pristine coastal waters on the planet, ensuring safe and healthy fish for our consumers. Port Lincoln is located on the tip of the Eyre Peninsula along Australia’s great southern ocean. Featuring 2,000 kilometres of untouched coastline, the Eyre Peninsula is widely acknowledged as a prime region for aquaculture with pristine water quality, sheltered bays and exceptional water flows. A combination of ocean currents, pristine unpolluted waters and natural topography causes an influx of fish and other marine species into the area creating an abundance of premium seafood.
Leading edge farming techniques and fish husbandry ensure very few fish have health concerns; the industry has adapted husbandry techniques that minimise disease burden. Farming in deeper water helps reduce blood fluke infection and ensures sufficient clean water flow through the cages and farming sites to prevent contamination, and reduce any concerns regarding nutrient loads released into the environment.