Rally Grounds Stir as Tasmania’s Salmon Industry Faces Fierce Opposition

On a vibrant Sunday afternoon, the lawns outside Hobart’s Parliament House brimmed with voices of dissent, echoing the growing unrest against Tasmania’s bustling farmed salmon industry. The scene was a tapestry of passionate protest, organized by the Bob Brown Foundation, where activists and concerned citizens gathered to voice their opposition to commercial aquaculture in the pristine waters of the island state.

Dubbed the ‘vote salmon out’ rally, this gathering marks a crescendo in a wave of anti-salmon sentiment sweeping across Tasmania. The protests have gained momentum in recent months, fueled by a devastating event in February that saw over 6,000 tonnes of salmon perish in a catastrophic mass mortality incident. The tragedy cast a long shadow over the industry, intensifying public scrutiny and transforming it into a potent political issue.

Speakers from diverse backgrounds seized the moment to challenge industry practices and government policies. Political hopefuls and environmental advocates alike condemned what they described as the industry’s troubling environmental record, including its detrimental effects on the endangered Maugean skate. The gathering was not just about raising awareness but also about demanding accountability and change.

Among the voices was Peter George, an independent candidate vying for the Franklin seat. His message was clear: victory may be elusive, but his commitment to defending Tasmania’s waterways remains unwavering. “My path to victory is narrow,” George admitted, “but if elected, I will continue fighting for Franklin’s rivers and reefs.”

Eloise Carr, the Tasmanian director of The Australian Institute, also took to the stage. Her speech targeted recent federal legislative amendments that she argued threaten environmental oversight. The legislation, passed in a hurried parliamentary session just before the election call, allows the government to limit public and environmental groups’ ability to challenge federal decisions—a move critics say undermines transparency and accountability.

As the sun set over Hobart, the rally underscored a rising tide of resistance against the aquaculture industry. With environmental concerns, political ambitions, and community voices converging, Tasmania’s future in the waters remains a fiercely contested front.