Doug Butterworth and Johann Augustyn, who both play pivotal roles in the management of the deep-sea trawl fishery for hake, were presented with certificates of “Special Recognition for Excellence and Accomplishments” at the inaugural Fishing Industry Gala Awards that took place in Cape Town in October.
The black-tie event was attended by the leaders of the South African fishing industry. They gathered to recognise and honour the companies, individuals and associations who contribute to the success of the industry.
The inaugural Fishing Industry Gala Awards event was sponsored by the seafood business Fish4Africa and co-hosted by the umbrella industry body, FishSA. Jo-ann Strauss, former Miss South Africa and TV presenter, compèred the night’s proceedings and comedian Stuart Taylor provided the entertainment.
A moment of silence was observed to remember the former pillars of the fishing industry who have passed away. The focus then shifted to celebrating those who make their mark in numerous ways.
Dr Johann Augustyn, who manages the day-to-day business of the South African Deep-Sea Trawling Industry Association, was acknowledged for his long career in science and fisheries management, and service to the fishing industry. He has served on numerous national and international advisory bodies and continues to share his profound knowledge of fisheries with the Stakeholder Council of the Marine Stewardship Council and the Fisheries Experts Group of the IUCN Commission on Ecosystem Management. Over the years he has published many papers and contributed to several scientific books.
Emeritus Professor Doug Butterworth is a globally respected specialist in fisheries stock assessment. He and his colleagues at the University of Cape Town’s Marine Resource Assessment and Management Group (MARAM) designed the operational management procedure that is used to manage all commercial fisheries in South Africa. He continues to advise intergovernmental organisations, governments and industries in other countries on the management of resources as wide ranging as tunas, orange roughy, Tristan rock lobster, seals and whales.
Awards were also presented in the following categories:
- Leadership: ICV Africa
- Small, medium and micro-enterprise development: I&J
- Sustainability: The South African Hake Longline Association
- Women in Fishing: Michelle Bellinger
- Legends/Lifetime Award: Gaston Fernandes
Sue Middleton, Deputy Director General for Fisheries Management in the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment and Loyiso Phantshwa, Chairperson of FishSA, presented the awards. They both addressed the gathering and highlighted the important role the industry plays in the country’s economy.
Following the awards ceremony, celebrity Siv Ngesi encouraged participants to get behind their team as South Africa took on England in the semi-final of the Rugby World Cup.
