Nestled in the heart of Australia’s largest fishing port, the Lakes Entrance Fishermen’s Ltd, affectionately known by locals as “the co-op,” has been the beating heart of the Bass Strait seafood industry for generations.
From the bustling trawlers unloading their daily catch to the vibrant café serving seafood fresh off the boats, the Lakes Entrance seafood precinct on Bullock Island is a testament to the enduring spirit and dedication of the fishing community.
“It’s not just a job; it’s a way of life,” Anthony Woodland, general manager of Lakes Entrance Fishermen’s Ltd, said.
“Here at Bullock Island, we encompass everything — from catch to processing, to retail and wholesale, even cooking up the freshest meals at Off The Wharf café. Our team covers the entire spectrum of seafood activities and we’re proud to be part of such a unique and essential operation.”
For decades the co-op has been more than a processing and retail hub; it has been a cornerstone of the Lakes Entrance community. Supporting local causes like the Lakes Entrance Surf Lifesaving Club and Coast Guard, and even fundraising for families in need, the co-op exemplifies its commitment to social responsibility.
“We don’t just operate here — we live here,” Mr Woodland said.
“This community supports us, and we work hard to give back in every way we can.”
Victorians can also take pride in knowing that their locally harvested seafood is sustainably sourced. Unlike other parts of the world, Victorian fishing practices are carefully managed to protect marine ecosystems, ensuring that future generations can enjoy fresh, healthy, and sustainable seafood.
However, the future of this vital industry faces significant challenges. Large-scale interests, including wind farms, carbon capture projects and mining operations, are vying to claim parts of Bass Strait, potentially threatening vital fishing grounds.
“This isn’t just about the fishing fleet,” Mr Woodland said.
“It’s about every Victorian who enjoys fresh, locally caught seafood. The health of our industry directly impacts the quality and sustainability of the seafood on your plate.”
Despite these challenges, Mr Woodland remains optimistic.
“We believe Victorians value the role we play in providing safe, fresh seafood. We are determined to ensure that our fishing grounds remain accessible, not just for us, but for the generations who will follow in our footsteps,” he said.
As Lakes Entrance continues to provide some of the best seafood in the Southern Hemisphere, its fishermen are calling on the public to support them — because the health of the ocean and the livelihood of their community depend on it.
