The Aquaculture Nutrition Subprogram was established to maintain communication and momentum in aquaculture nutrition research in Australia, and to ensure focussed investment in this research discipline and optimum return on research investment. The Subprogram was successful in establishing an Expert Working Group used for the evaluation of research projects and strategic research priorities, a strategic plan for 2002-2007, a number of short courses, workshops and conference sessions,  and the basis for a more standardised and relevant approach to aquaculture nutrition research through a methodology manual.

Keywords: aquaculture, nutrition

National Seafood Industry Leadership Program 2009 – 2011 was reviewed and revised in line with the 2008 review. Adjustments were made to the program including the introduction of the third day added to Residential 2 – Sydney (Objective 1 & 3). These adjustments have provided further opportunity for skill development, networking and leadership growth.

A further NSILP stakeholder survey was conducted during 2011. (Objective 2) and although responses were low in number information gathered indicated that graduates of the program had enhanced their leadership in their workplaces and in the industry.

Average of over sixteen (16) seafood industry individuals graduated from the 2009, 2010 and 2011 NSILP. The minimum target graduate number was fifteen per annum. (Objective 4). The promotion and selection processes ensured a broad cross-section of industry participated. 60% of participants were directly working within industry as fishers or in representative roles. Recreational and Indigenous participation was achieved. The diversity of participants and guest speakers ensured an industry wide perspective was developed. This diversity is also seen as an extremely positive element of the NSILP as it ensures “big-picture” thinking for future industry leaders.

At the conclusion of the project fifty (50) graduates were welcomed by the industry as leaders who have a clearer understanding of positively impacting on decision-making processes at all levels of the industry. The graduation evening allows for the NSILP Major Sponsor Sydney Fish Market to be recognized and the nature of the evening ensures the industry understands the caliber of the graduates through a number of presentations. This project continues to provide an excellent platform for high-level networking, leadership growth, information and knowledge exchange, strategic thinking and outcomes for the seafood industry.