Asher Flynn at the front with directors of Fremantle Octopus Craig and Ross Cammilleri in the background.
Camera IconAsher Flynn at the front with directors of Fremantle Octopus Craig and Ross Cammilleri in the background. Credit: Supplied/Robin Kornet

Fremantle Octopus wins WA Industry and Export Award

Bryce LuffFremantle Gazette

A LOCAL seafood business has taken out a WA Industry and Export Award.

Fremantle Octopus, a Hamilton Hill-based company which catches and ships stock seafood across the world, recently claimed the Small Business Export category at a gala event at Crown Perth.

Operations manager Asher Flynn said the business, which was up against Norwood Systems and Proteomics International Laboratories for the award, was unsure where it stood leading up to the night.

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“It was pretty tricky because we’re usually grouped with similar companies but this was more varied,” he said.

“It was difficult to read how we would go.

“But we’re really happy with the award. It’s recognition for all the hard work.”

Mr Flynn said the 16-year-old business, which exports across Australia and into overseas markets including the USA, Singapore and Hong Kong, has significant room to grow.

“There’s huge demand,” he said.

“Demand outstrips what we export by about double.

“It’s all about how much the Government allows us to catch.”

Also among the winners was Henderson-based Austal, which claimed the Marketing and Design Excellence Award and the Manufacturing Award.

Commerce Minister Michael Mischin said the awards highlighted the great work of local businesses.

“This year’s award winners have made a tremendous contribution towards the State’s growth and economic diversity and it’s important to acknowledge their participation in global markets,” he said.

Winners become automatic finalists for the National Export Awards on November 24.