WA Seafood Industry Awards – Reward and recognition for seafood industry excellence
The winners of the 2026 WA Seafood Industry Awards were unveiled at a gala celebration held at Fraser’s Restaurant in Kings Park on Friday, 8 May. The event brought together a large and enthusiastic audience of industry leaders, seafood businesses and representatives to recognise excellence across Western Australia’s seafood sector.
WA Fishing Industry Council Interim Chief Executive Officer, Ms Manue Daniels, said the awards remain a highlight of the industry calendar and carry particular significance this year.
“These awards are especially meaningful in 2026, as our industry continues to navigate a period of dramatic change. While recent fisheries reforms present significant challenges, this year’s event is about recognising strength, resilience, innovation, excellence and opportunity,” Ms Daniels said.
“Western Australia’s seafood businesses continue to rise to the occasion, delivering outstanding achievements, innovation and leadership. These awards provide a valued opportunity for our industry to come together, acknowledge these successes and celebrate what we do best.”
Ms Daniels said the WA seafood industry remains a vital contributor to the state’s economy and regional communities.
“The Western Australian seafood industry stands strong as a key driver of economic and regional development. As a billion-dollar industry and a major employer, particularly in our regional centres and coastal town, the award winners exemplify our ability to deliver a world‑class, sustainable food industry.”
Manue also highlighted the diversity and forward momentum demonstrated by this year’s nominees.
“The calibre of nominees reflects an encouraging depth of innovation, adaptability and inclusiveness, with many women stepping into prominent leadership roles across the sector. Together, they showcase a modern, resilient and environmentally responsible primary industry, one we can all be incredibly proud of,” Ms Daniels said.
Category winners receive automatic entry into the Australian Seafood Industry Awards, to be held alongside the 2026 Seafood Directions Conference. The Deckhand Award is the sole exception, as a WA-only category, created to recognise and celebrate the skill, dedication and contribution of those working on the frontline of the industry.
And the winners are…..
Takeaway Fish and Chips – Ocean and Paddock
Seafood Industry Producer (Small) – Two Rocks Tentacles
Seafood Industry Producer Large – Sea Harvest
Seafood Business (Small) – Black Pearl Oyster Shucking
Seafood Business (Large) – Endeavour Foods
Health and Safety Award – Aquatic Life Industries
Research, Development and Extension Award – Bringing the iconic Australian Herring to the food service and retail market
Environment Award – Coral Futures Corporation
People Development Award – Turning the Tide program/ Women in Seafood Australasia
Seafood Industry Promotion – Seafood Innovation Workshop
Seafood Experience – Lobster Shack
Deckhand Award – Isabel Waskiewicz
Michael and Patricia Kailis Leadership Award – Phil De Grauw