Tasmania’s Huon announces major hatchery contract

Huon Aquaculture is the second largest salmon producer in the southern Australian state , employing almost 500 people and currently producing 25,000 tons a year.

Under the agreement, Pure Salmon will design, deliver and install the hatchery which will be constructed in Tasmania. It said the facility will include RAS technology to ensure optimal biosecurity, water efficiency and fish health. 

A joint statement from the two companies said: “When operational, it [the new hatchery] will allow Huon to produce larger fish on land and deliver high-quality smolt. The new facility is designed for flexible operation, with high recycling intensity and near zero environmental impact.”

Construction of the facility is scheduled to begin in the next few weeks with full commissioning expected in 2027. The deal is still subject to regulatory approval.

Depha Miedecke, Huon’s Aquaculture Production Manager, said: “Huon has been a leader in Tasmania in investing in recirculating aquaculture systems, and the proposed project will more than double our land-based production capacity.

“Raising larger fish on land reduces the time the salmon spend in the sea and provides stable production throughout the year. Subject to regulatory approvals, we look forward to working with the skilled team at Pure Salmon and local contractors, including electricians and builders, to bring the project to fruition.”

Luke Kellgren Parker, CEO of Pure Salmon Technology AS said: “The project not only marks our expansion into the Australian market, but also showcases the delivery of a plant built around fixed-bed biofilter technology (FBBR), a tailor-made solution for Huon that complements our traditional moving-bed portfolio (MBBR).”

He added: “The expansion into Australia is a strategic milestone in our global plan, and we are pleased to support a project that reflects our shared commitment to innovation, environmental responsibility and long-term value creation.

Stephane Farouze, founder and chairman of 8F Asset Management, the owner of Pure Salmon Technology, commented: “We are confident that this is just the first step in a long and fruitful collaboration with Huon.”