Western Rock Lobster CEO Matt Taylor, Policy & Governance Officer Joy Johnston, Board Chairman Russell Barnett and Co-Deputy Chairman Bruce Cockman, recently joined seafood industry leaders from across Australia and New Zealand at Seafood Directions 2026.
As an official lanyard sponsor, Western Rock Lobster was proud to support this important national conference, which brought together representatives from across the wild-capture, aquaculture, research, hospitality and seafood supply-chain sectors.
The conference provided an opportunity for WRL representatives to contribute to important industry discussions, strengthen relationships and hear from leaders shaping the future of seafood production, sustainability, market access and regulation.
Strengthening trust through certification and traceability
WRL CEO Matt Taylor moderated a panel featuring Anne Gabriel from the Marine Stewardship Council, Alastair Dingwall from the Aquaculture Stewardship Council and Huw Thomas from the Global Dialogue on Seafood Traceability.
The discussion explored how independent certification, digital traceability and credible assurance systems can strengthen transparency, integrity and consumer trust across wild-capture fisheries, aquaculture and the broader seafood supply chain.
Panellists also considered how pre-certification pathways could help smaller and developing fisheries build their capabilities and progressively prepare for formal certification.
During the session, Anne Gabriel acknowledged WRL’s courage and commitment in becoming the world’s first fishery to achieve Marine Stewardship Council certification at a time when there was no established pathway to follow.
She also recognised WRL’s continued leadership in maintaining certification and advocating for the value of independent, science-based assurance within the seafood industry.
National and international industry perspectives
The conference featured a broad range of speakers and industry representatives, including Australian Fisheries Management Authority CEO and Commissioner Wez Norris.
New Zealand Minister for Oceans and Fisheries Shane Jones also addressed delegates, sharing insights into New Zealand’s approach to fishing access security and the country’s work to improve and modernise fisheries legislation.
Another memorable moment was the recognition of Austral CEO David Carter, who will retire at the end of 2026 following an extraordinary 46-year career. His contribution to the seafood industry was celebrated through a special “This Is Your Life” presentation reflecting on his career, achievements and influence.
Behind the scenes at the Sydney Fish Market
WRL representatives also participated in a behind-the-scenes tour of the facility, gaining an insight into how seafood auctions are conducted and how products are managed through each stage of the trading process—from arrival and sale through to logistics and dispatch.
The tour offered a valuable perspective on the scale, coordination and technology required to support one of Australia’s most important seafood trading centres.
Celebrating women and First Nations leadership
WRL staff member Joy Johnston attended the Women in Seafood Australasia breakfast, which featured an inspiring presentation from Mindy Woods.
A proud First Nations saltwater woman, chef and mentor, Mindy delivered an inclusive and passionate address reflecting her strong connection to culture, community, food and the seafood industry.
The breakfast provided an important opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women across the industry while highlighting the value of diverse voices, experiences and leadership.
Seafood industry excellence recognised
The conference concluded with a gala awards ceremony celebrating individuals and organisations making outstanding contributions to Australia’s seafood industry.
Dr Alison Turnbull accepted the Research, Development and Extension Award in recognition of her work supporting the reopening of Australia’s live lobster export trade.
WRL Chairman Russell Barnett presented the Best Restaurant Award to Pipit. This award recognised a restaurant that demonstrates excellence in consistently serving quality seafood, providing customers with an outstanding dining experience and making a substantial contribution to the positive public profile of the Australian seafood industry.
Seafood Directions 2026 provided WRL with a valuable opportunity to represent the Western rock lobster industry on the national stage, recognise industry achievements and contribute to conversations about sustainability, traceability, market access, innovation and the future of seafood.