Gladstone Area Water Board (GAWB) is continuing to set the standard for the Queensland aquaculture industry, with more than five million Barramundi fingerlings produced by Aquaculture Gladstone in less than three years.
Overall, GAWB has now produced more than 10 million fingerlings (all species) since its hatchery operations began in 1995.
GAWB Chief Executive Officer Darren Barlow said this achievement is the result of more than three decades of dedication and innovation.
“Our aquaculture journey began in the 1980s when we partnered with recreational fish stocking groups and the Queensland Government to stock native species in Lake Awoonga,” Mr Barlow said.
“In 1995, we commenced fingerling production at our Lord Street hatchery on the banks of the Auckland Creek Inlet. Over the decades, we’ve refined our operations, ensuring biosecurity and innovation remain at the forefront.
“In late 2023 we opened a brand new, state-of-the-art hatchery at Lake Awoonga, and this has greatly accelerated our ability to efficiently produce healthy fingerlings at a much larger scale, which is why our production numbers have increased so dramatically in the past three years.”
While restocking Lake Awoonga remains the primary focus, GAWB also supports and distributes Barramundi fingerlings across Queensland.
These Barramundi fingerlings play a key role in supporting recreational fishing, promotes economic development, and maintaining a healthy aquatic environment.
“Our work ensures a thriving fish population and healthy waterway, which in turn supports Queensland’s recreational fishing community,” Mr Barlow said.
“This milestone is a testament to the hard work and vision of the staff who have worked at our hatchery over the years, and we’re extremely proud of the legacy they’ve helped create.”
Fast Facts:
- 10 million fingerlings (all species) have been produced by GAWB since hatchery operations began in 1995.
- Aquaculture Gladstone has produced five million Barramundi fingerlings at the Lake Awoonga facility since May 2022.
Aquaculture Gladstone is a multi-species, native fish hatchery, which is part of Gladstone Area Water Board. It produces Barramundi, Sea Mullet and Mangrove Jack fingerlings.
In addition to its successful fish breeding program, Aquaculture Gladstone opened the interpretive display at the hatchery in November 2023. The interpretive display creates an accessible experience for visitors to learn about the different fish species being bred at the hatchery, the aquaculture industry more broadly, biosecurity and biological pest species.
Gladstone Area Water Board, as a Queensland Government Bulk Water Supply Authority, delivers safe and reliable water services which promote economic development and enhances the lifestyle of regional Queensland. GAWB owns and operates Awoonga Dam, along with a network of delivery pipelines, water treatment plants and other bulk water distribution infrastructure.
