A Northern Territory commercial fishing venture has received a major award at the National Seafood Industry Awards.

Australia Bay Seafoods, which operates three trawlers in the demersal fishing zone, won the Environment Award for the company’s work developing new trawl technologies.

Director, Bill Passey, says it is good to be recognised for putting many years into making sure the industry is sustainable.

“I didn’t start fishing five minutes ago, I started at the age of 14 and I’m now 65 years of age.

“To be able to win that award while being one of the largest producers of fish, there’s got to be something we’re doing right,” he said.

NT seafood industry recognises best in the business

He says the new trawling gear on his vessels has been meant for the catching of less shark and stingray.

“Any large animals that enter the net hit the grid and drop down to the bottom, drop out and swim away.

“It’s better for the environment, it’s better for us, it’s better for the fish, it’s a good result,” he said.

“Our major customers are Coles and Woolworths Australia-wide, supplying them weekly with fresh fish, you have to have good credentials.”

The Darwin Fish Market won the Business (small) Award.