Warruwi aquaculture project a success

Warruwi is playing a major role in a project to create jobs and aquaculture in remote communities by developing a blacklip rock oyster industry on the island.
The project, carried out in conjunction with the NT Government’s Darwin Aquaculture Centre (DAC), could eventually see oysters from communities such as Warruwi, and Pirlangimpi on the Tiwi Islands, sold into Darwin and beyond.
The DAC team hatches spat – juvenile rock oysters – which are then sent to the islands to develop.
Bunug Galaminda from Yagbani Aboriginal Corporation said the project had been in the works for some time with the full support of the Warruwi community.
“We didn’t give up, we kept going, and this is the end result. We were looking for a gold mine, and this is the gold mine that we’ve got now, the oyster farm,” he said.
“We’re very proud of the aquaculture farm and I’m grateful to the Aquaculture Centre (DAC) in Darwin as well.” 
Minister for Primary Industry and Resources Ken Vowles said developing a tropical rock oyster aquaculture industry with coastal Aboriginal communities will create real jobs for local people.
“The Territory Labor Government is focused on creating jobs for all Territorians,” Mr Vowles said. “We know a rewarding job is the best way to improve someone’s quality of life. Opportunities can be limited in remote locations, but this project could see Aboriginal communities successfully farming oysters on a commercial scale.”
Member for Arafura, Lawrence Costa, said the Warruwi and Pirlangimpi communities, both in his electorate, were excited to be involved.
“This is a great opportunity for residents to help grow a sustainable aquaculture program that could bring economic benefits in the future,” he said.