A fertile environment of spacious rich land, predictable weather and crystal clear seas, with an abundance of marine life has resulted in vibrant and growing primary industries on Flinders Island. The region is based solidly on farming and fishing industries, which employs 30 to 40 per cent of the workforce. Beef, lamb and wool is sold to places throughout Australia and overseas, contributing to our national export market.
Flinders Island wool products can be purchased from Latitude 40, a company making 100 per cent wool filled garments, pillows and doonas, along with products that utilise innovations like ‘sportwool’.
The emergence of new and unique industries on Flinders Island has captured the interest of locals, visitors and newcomers.Furneaux Aquaculture on Flinders Island comprises wild harvesting as well as farming abalone. Some 750 kilograms of black and green lipped abalone are flown each week to Sydney and Melbourne. Farming involves the capturing of abalone just prior to spawning. The spawn is collected and hatched in aquarium tanks.
For nine months, the tiny abalone are totally protected from marine predators growing to approximately five millimetres. They are then placed in protective cages and placed back in the ocean until they mature to commercial size at about three years of age. Farming is increasing the yields and supplementing harvesting from the ocean.
Other emerging industries of Flinders Island include wine and olive oil.
Roger Watson has set up the first winery on Flinders Island. Commencing planting in 1999, his winery at Badger’s Corner now has seven acres under vine. Using drip watering from the Samphire River, Roger will produce both white and red varieties. He plans to make the wine on the property, establishing cellar door sales in the future.
Flinders Island’s first olive grove is taking shape at Killiecrankie. Having moved from Victoria, the owners purchased the former farm last year. Some 1,000 olive trees will be planted this spring. A drip watering system has been installed and the first commercial crop is anticipated in three years time. Similar to wine production, due to the time factor in moving produce off the Island, olive oil will be produced and bottled on the property.
