National Barramundi Day is being recognised for the first time today, and the Territory is home to the largest barramundi farm in Australia, Humpty Doo Barramundi.

The salt-water barramundi producers have been recognised extensively for their best-practice, sustainable barramundi farm, including acknowledgment by Supermarket giant Woolworths as 2018 Sustainability Supplier of the Year. 

Most recently, in September 2019 the farm was awarded the Australian Government Landcare Farming Award.

Currently expanding their Middle Point operations due to be opened in December, Humpty Doo Barramundi employ around 90 staff, and produce 3.5 million kilograms of barramundi each year. 

Each year, seafood production contributes $155 million to the Northern Territory economy and is responsible for generating nearly 1,000 direct and indirect jobs. 

The national day has been developed by the Australian Barramundi Farmers Association to recognise sustainability of the industry, the farmers who produce it and the restaurants who utilise it on their menus. 

Territorians are encouraged to #askforaussiebarra next time they go to purchase seafood over the counter or in restaurants. 

Quotes from Minister for Primary Industry and Resources, Paul Kirby:

“The Territory’s seafood industry creates around 1000 direct jobs and injects many millions of dollars into our economy each year.

“Humpty Doo Barramundi makes a significant contribution to those export and job figures and are continuing to expand with the increasing demand for their premium product.

“A surprising amount of barramundi is imported from overseas and consumers are largely unaware where it is from. National Barramundi Day shines a light on the commercial industry here in the NT and the importance of buying local.

Quotes from Dan Richards, CEO, Humpty Doo Barramundi: 

“We are proud that our 100% Territory family owned and operated farm contributes to the Northern Territory’s economy and community by producing a high-quality saltwater Barramundi that is in demand around Australia and, increasingly, overseas. 

“This means we are able to provide more jobs and more opportunities in aquaculture in the Northern Territory.

“National Barramundi Day shines a spotlight on Australian Barramundi farmers. We produce high-quality, sustainable Barramundi in Australia. Choosing Australian-grown Barramundi supports jobs in Australia for this growth industry.”

Media Contact: Hannah West 0436 641 108