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7am

A bizarre and frankly gross thing happening

Mar 2, 2025
Mike Seccombe, national correspondent for The Saturday Paper, dives deep into the salmon farming crisis in Tasmania. He reveals the alarming situation of rotting salmon along beaches and the inadequate response from authorities. The discussion highlights the role of warm waters and disease in this environmental disaster. As the Albanese government invests millions to sway votes amid an election, the political fallout intensifies. Seccombe sheds light on the challenges both the salmon industry and local ecosystems face, making this a critical moment for Tasmania.
16:41

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Tasmania's salmon farming crisis stems from environmental factors and disease, leading to unprecedented mortality rates among fish.
  • The Albanese government is investing millions in the salmon industry to secure jobs and votes, despite growing local protests and environmental concerns.

Deep dives

Discovery of Dead Salmon on Beaches

Recently, locals in southeast Tasmania discovered thousands of dead salmon washed up on Verona Sands Beach, prompting immediate concern among environmental activists. Upon investigation, Jess Coghlan, a campaigner with Neighbours of Fish Farming, found fish scales and flesh in the debris, indicating that these were not remnants of fish feed but rather deceased fish from nearby salmon farming operations. The discovery suggested a wider issue, as evidence emerged that the dead fish had originated from salmon pens operated by major producers like Huon Aquaculture. This alarming situation has highlighted the environmental consequences of the industry and raised questions about management practices in the area.

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