The chief executive of Tasmania’s peak salmon industry body is stepping down, with a seasoned leader set to take the reins.
Luke Martin, who joined Salmon Tasmania in 2023 after heading up the Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania, will leave the role in the coming months.
He will be replaced by Dr John Whittington, a former Secretary of the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment.
In a statement, Salmon Tasmania Chairman Lyall Howard said the organisation was going through a “changing of the guard”.
“Luke has been an outstanding advocate for our industry over the past two-years,” Howard said.
“He has led our industry with passion, skill and determination whilst navigating the challenging circumstances with Macquarie Harbour.”
“Without him, the West Coast community would be facing an uncertain future.”
The leadership change comes as the sector grapples with a series of challenges, including the recent death of more than a million fish in a single mass mortality event in February.
The bacteria responsible was also recently found in Storm Bay.
“There is no doubt we have had a difficult few months with the mortality event in the south-east and the intense activism focussed on the federal election,” Howard added.
“Dr Whittington is a highly respected and credible leader in our industry who is well placed to lead the industry through our next period.”
Dr Whittington is expected to take up the role in the coming months.
