It was a gala occasion as Gold Coast Marine Aquaculture’s Mossman prawn farm was officially opened today which was highlighted by Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Mark Furner saying he would like to see Queensland become seafood capital of the world.

With representation from all levels of government, the farm was officially opened by Douglas Shire Mayor Julia Leu.

And in a further boost for the area, Noel Herbst – the owner and founder of Gold Coast Marine Aquaculture – revealed that his company would be expanding in the area over the next few years with plans to build a hatchery and processing facility.

Furner said the global aquaculture industry was valued in the hundreds of billions of dollars, and Queensland was well placed to take advantage of the opportunities on offer.

“Overseas, aquaculture is rapidly overtaking the wild caught fishery in value.

“In Queensland the industry is valued at $120 million, with the production of prawns making up the lion’s share of this figure and this is why I would like to see Queensland be a world leader,” he said.

In thanking the Herbst family for bringing the business to the shire, Warren Entsch, Federal Member for Leichhardt, said although tourism was a key component of the local economy but primarily Port Douglas-focused, Mossman was built on agriculture and this should not be overlooked.

“This is a significant piece of news and will be key to the area. Full marks to the Herbst family who put their money where their mouth is and have produced a first class product,” said Entsch.

Leu reiterated that agriculture is a major part of the economy adding she was looking forward to further plans.

The organisers of this celebration did not miss a beat and provided a large spread which included an abundance of prawns, among other seafood items.