IS IT A “BARRAMUNDI” OR A “COCK-UP”? - 01/05/2005

The Martin Government has joined the push by Territory fish farmers for the use of the word “barramundi” to be used only for fish produced in Australia.

Fisheries Minister, Kon Vatskalis, said the iconic Australian fish is at risk of losing its identity with overseas producers blatantly cashing-in on the “barramundi” name.

“The barramundi is as Australian as Vegemite and meat pies, and something must be done to protect its iconic status,” said Mr Vatskalis.

“Fishing is the lure of Territory – catching and eating barra is an important part of our great Territory lifestyle.

“While the barra has a wide geographic distribution, the name “barramundi” is derived from the Aboriginal word burramundi meaning ‘large scales’.

“Believe it or not, our famous fish is also known as a “giant perch” and a “cock-up” in regions to our north!”

Mr Vatskalis said he has written to his Federal counterpart, Senator Ian Macdonald, urging the Commonwealth to ensure barramundi imported from overseas are correctly labelled with the names from the country of origin, such as Asian seabass.

“The Commonwealth Government’s Fish Naming Committee stands by its ‘one fish species / one marketing name’ policy,” said Mr Vatskalis.

“In the case of the barramundi, I believe the Fish Naming Committee must make an exception to adequately recognise and protect the iconic status of this fish.

“I look forward to hearing from the Commonwealth on this important matter.”

Kon Vatskalis
MINISTER FOR PRIMARY INDUSTRY AND FISHERIES