Tasmania to fund research

Mr Green said Government support of the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) would ensure the highest quality research and development for the State’s fisheries and aquaculture sectors.

Work will start soon on a new Commonwealth-funded $45 million purpose-built facility for the Institute on Hobart’s waterfront.

“This will build the reputation of UTAS and Tasmania as the centre for Antarctic, marine, aquaculture, and fisheries research that is both nationally and internationally recognised,” Mr Green said.

Mr Green said detailed design work was almost complete for the project on Princes Wharf No. 2. And that the transfer of the site would be completed soon with building works to start later this year.

The former Tasmanian Aquaculture and Fisheries Institute (TAFI) was recently incorporated into IMAS as part of a new collaboration agreement between the Government and the University of Tasmania.

The Government is supporting the new initiative with annual funding of $2.605 million.

“It is extremely important that we use the expertise of the Institute to achieve the best possible outcomes for commercial, recreational and conservation stakeholders.”

The Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), Professor Peter Frappell, said the focus of key IMAS research was aligned with the needs of the State’s fisheries and aquaculture industries.

“Through this partnership with the State Government, the University will deliver research and extension in these vital primary industries,” Prof Frappell said.

Mr Green said a key aim of the IMAS was to be responsive to the needs of the State’s fishing and aquaculture industries.

The Institute has joined efforts in the fight against the long-spined sea urchin (Centrostephanus) which is threatening marine ecosystems off the State’s East Coast.

“The sea urchin is a serious threat to abalone and rock lobster habitats and is extremely difficult to manage,” he said.