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Rod
Cheetham
(B.Ed. Env. Sci) is an Extension Officer with the Queensland
Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries. (DPI&F) |
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Originally from
Victoria, he spent 15 years at the State Fish
Hatchery at Snobs Creek. Here he gained a sound knowledge of trout in
natural and aquaculture situations, and native fish breeding research. He
was also responsible for setting up and day to day running the Visitor
Centre, with world class freshwater aquarium displays. Since becoming a
Queenslander he has assisted many prospective and existing aquaculturalists
in refining their decisions and operations. Rod and his
family have lived in Kingaroy in SE Queensland
since 1997, and he is also heavily involved with the DPI&F Freshwater Fish
restocking program. |
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Some recent
activities have included regular cooking demonstrations at functions such as
the Toowoomba AgShow, where a cooperative effort between the Department and
growers continues to promote the health benefits freshwater cultured
product, as well as active involvement with AAQ workshops and the annual
conference. |
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In 2003 Rod was awarded the
converted AAQ Carson Award. This is an industry award given to people who
have made an outstanding contribution to freshwater finfish aquaculture.
Rod currently
works mainly with inland finfish producers, and combined with his DPI&F
colleagues covers areas from the Fitzroy basin south, the Burnett, and more
recently the Murray Darling catchment. |
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First presentation |
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If advising
clients, Rod is quick to point out that true aquaculture is a commitment,
and not necessarily a lifestyle. What you eventually get
out of the industry is what you put in. No short term
gains have been observed in
Queensland freshwater, but those that stick at it
with good sound management, a bit of financial backing and a commitment to
best practise principles eventually see a reward for their efforts.
Rod will expand on his 10 years observations in Queensland to give us
an insight as to how AAQ members may be able to become a more efficient and
professional organisation. |
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Second presentation
After the AAQ
dinner Rod will describe some of his experiences at Kununurra in
Western Australia during May 2006 as part of a joint
field trip with DPI&F and West Australian Fisheries. Some
unfamiliar and unique fish species will be shown along with one or 2 croc
stories . . . |
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