New program to promote NSW seafood

24th May 2021 | Eativity editors

The NSW state government and industry have announced a grassroots campaign to get NSW seafood on more plates in more restaurants and at more events.

The NSW Government will deliver $500,000 in grants under the Eat More NSW Seafood 2021 program for industry stakeholders to promote their fresh, local produce.

Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall says that since the state’s seafood industry was impacted by the recent floods, it was now more important than ever to buy local. This program will help to put NSW seafood front and centre for both businesses and consumers.

“Our produce is world-class,” Marshall says. “So we’ve launched a campaign to support local businesses and see plates piled with fish, oysters, mussels and more, all caught from NSW waters. The state’s seafood businesses have been hit hard by natural disasters. There’s never been a more important time to support them and buy locally.”

NSW seafood: black-lip abalone — After COVID held up supply for a year, Rockpool Bar & Grill once again has NSW black-lip abalone on the menu.

Angling for promotion

The Eat More NSW Seafood 2021 program will allow businesses to apply for grants from a $500,000 funding pool. This can help them promote their produce as the best choice for tourists and locals alike.

“Applicants can organise an event, run a marketing campaign or just focus on selling more catches,” Marshall says. “Anything that promotes our high-quality seafood. Whether it’s prawns from Pambula, snapper caught at Coffs Harbour or kingfish at Kingscliff – hook in!”

Funding will be delivered in two streams, including grants for both small-scale and large-scale projects. The NSW Seafood Industry Council will administer the program.

NSW seafood: rock oysters — Australia’s Oyster Coast Appellation Oysters were a NSW state winner in the delicious. 2021 produce awards.

Seafood worth saving

“Our seafood industry is worth $174 million a year” Marshall says. “But it’s still vital we protect it from the impacts of floods, COVID, trade disruptions, bushfires and drought.”

NSW Seafood Industry Council Chair Bryan Skepper says close collaboration with government is the best way to ensure the future of the industry.

“If seafood businesses can better promote their produce, they’ll be able to get more seafood on NSW plates,” he says. “We’re excited to be working hand-in-hand with the NSW government to showcase our world-leading seafood.”