BUSINESS FEATURE

Port Douglas boasts a reputation for its abundance of top-tier seafood restaurants and while many dishes feature wild-caught barramundi, there’s a growing demand for an alternative: barramundi from the town’s nearby aquaculture farm - reflecting an increasing commitment to sustainable food practices.

As global seafood demand rises, technological advances have transformed how we produce aquatic food, reducing our reliance on wild ocean fisheries.

Operated by Mainstream Aquaculture, a top supplier of barramundi in Australia, the Port Douglas farm raises superb barramundi in pristine saltwater, using advanced waste management to blend scientific precision with environmental stewardship.

Originally a small family venture by Marty Phillips, the farm caught Mainstream's attention in 2018 when they sought to expand into fillet-sized saltwater barramundi, culminating in the formation of Mainstream Aquaculture Queensland.

Now head of business Queensland, Mr Phillips, underscored the importance of aquaculture in addressing declining wild fish stocks. 

“It’s clear we can’t sustainably feed everyone by depleting ocean resources,” he noted.

“Aquaculture has surpassed wild fisheries production, stepping in to meet increasing global demand for supplying delicious, nutritious seafood.”

Mainstream currently runs three farms in North Queensland, including two near Innisfail, and has plans to expand further in the region, bringing increased job opportunities that will benefit local communities significantly.

“Fish farming is labour-intensive, so our growth requires additional manpower and we hope to attract them from the local community here in Douglas,” Mr Phillips said.

Ensuring fish health and happiness is a priority for Mr Phillips. 

“Optimal water quality is crucial for their wellbeing and growth,” he explained. 

“Our automated systems monitor oxygen levels and other parameters like pH and ammonia to maintain ideal conditions.

“Implementing advanced technologies in our ponds ensures we provide the best conditions for our fish while minimising our environmental footprint.”