Scottish Sea Farms Shines at Aquaculture Awards 2025

Scottish Sea Farms celebrated an exceptional night at the Aquaculture Awards 2025, held at the Macdonald Drumossie Hotel in Inverness, where they clinched three illustrious awards recognizing outstanding achievements within the aquaculture industry over the past year.

Rising Star: Alison Brough

Veterinary professional Alison Brough was honored as the Rising Star of the night, impressing judges with her ‘remarkable impact’ since joining Scottish Sea Farms. Her contributions as a strong ambassador and promising leader in the industry were noted, particularly through her involvement with the Young Aquaculture Society and the Fish Vet Society.

Alison is committed to enhancing fish health training and has introduced innovative fish health and welfare modules, combining in-person instruction at mainland farms with online video content spanning all three farming regions. She expressed her passion for teaching:

“Teaching someone something new, whether they are a beginner themselves or have been with the company for many years, then later seeing them do it naturally, without having to be taught any more, is what makes the endless road miles and nights away from home worthwhile,”

Farmer of the Year: Alastair Fraser

The Farmer of the Year accolade was awarded to long-serving Fishnish Farm Manager Alastair Fraser, who successfully pioneered the transition to fewer, larger pens, achieving impressive results. The judges acknowledged his leadership, stating that he ‘has led the charge and shown what can be possible.’

During the acceptance speech, Alastair expressed gratitude towards his dedicated team:

“This is for all the guys on the farm who have helped Fishnish drive the transition to bigger pens, delivering our best crop ever last year. I’ve been at Scottish Sea Farms for 35 years this year and there have been many highs and a few lows, but winning this award will stand out as the highlight.”

Community Initiative Award

Scottish Sea Farms’ Heart of the Community fund received recognition in the Community Initiative category for its ‘far-reaching and lasting impact.’ The fund has invested over £2 million in various community projects.

Georgie MacKenzie, who spearheaded the fund during its initial ten years, accepted the award on behalf of her team, emphasizing the commitment to supporting local communities:

“Our mission from the start was to give something back to the communities where we farm and to ensure that the money goes where it’s needed the most. I’m proud to have been part of the collective effort to make that happen.”

Final Thoughts

Jim Gallagher, Managing Director of Scottish Sea Farms, concluded the evening by acknowledging the exceptional talent within the company:

“These awards acknowledge what we in Scottish Sea Farms already knew, that we have some of the most exceptional people in the sector working to produce our top-quality salmon and sharing our success within the wider community. Congratulations to all our very deserving winners, you’ve made the company immensely proud!”