Buy local seafood to support WA jobs
It’s that time of year when many families and friends would normally be packing the car for a few days away in their favourite regional centres. And while Easter plans for many Western Australians will look very different to previous years, they can still be a special time to share with family if you turn it into a seafood celebration with those you love.
Western Australian Fishing Industry Council (WAFIC) Chief Executive, Alex Ogg said that now, more than ever before, it’s important for consumers to include seafood in their Easter meal plans and to make sure they’re buying local.
“Easter is a great time of year for seafood as there is so much variety, from our world-famous rock lobsters through to other favourites like pink snapper, red emperor, gold band snapper, octopus, King George whiting, wild caught prawns and Albany’s amazing oysters.
“Western Australia has some of the world’s best seafood and is in high demand in overseas markets that want the best quality and sustainable supply. These products are in our backyard, so you have access to some of the world’s best fresh and sustainable seafood,” Alex said.
Price-based shoppers can always find a bargain if they look around, with some retailers offering Dongara or Lancelin lobsters from around $20, with other great specials available online or in-store.
“Not only is seafood a very healthy food choice it’s also a great way to support WA’s fishing community as every sale goes to supporting a local fishing family, many of whom are very busy providing product to their regional community,” he said.
There’s always big demand for mouth-watering shark species and famous Cone Bay Barramundi, but also keep an eye out for some of the less-known varieties which are being picked up by a growing number of chefs and boutique cafes, including sea mullet, Robinson’s seabream, Australian herring, Moses sea perch, wild Western Australian salmon and Fremantle sardines.
If fish isn’t on your menu this year, then look out for Mandurah’s blue swimmer crabs, Abrolhos Island scallops and fresh new season prawns from Exmouth and Shark Bay.
“If you’re looking for inspiration on seafood varieties or recipes, take time to drop into a specialist seafood retailer and get some ideas on what’s on offer from WA suppliers, as well as trying something that may be new to you. But remember, buy local and support your local business at an Easter when we’re all in this together,” Alex said.