Local Salmon Farmers Rally for the Inaugural Island Games in Orkney
Salmon farmers from across Orkney are coming together to support the island’s hosting of the International Island Games for the very first time this week.
Community Support from Local Producers
Prominent local producers Cooke Scotland and Scottish Sea Farms, along with the trade body Salmon Scotland, have been instrumental in supporting the event from its inception. Their contributions include sponsorship, the provision of safety vessels for sailing competitions, and a dedicated team of volunteers to ensure the week’s events run smoothly.
Sailing Events and Participation
Scottish Sea Farms is set to provide boats and crew to assist with sailing events at Hatston pier. In addition, staff from both companies will partake in various activities throughout the sporting extravaganza, which runs from July 12 to July 18.
A Thriving Sporting Atmosphere
More than 2,000 athletes from 24 island groups will compete in a diverse array of sports including archery, athletics, badminton, cycling, football, golf, gymnastics, lawn bowls, sailing, squash, swimming, and triathlon. The ceremonial kick-off will take place this Saturday at Bignold Park in Kirkwall, hosted by ITV presenter Lorraine Kelly and officially inaugurated by HRH The Princess Royal, Princess Anne.
Engagement Opportunities
Throughout the week, visitors can engage with local producers at the Games Expo outside the Pickaquoy Centre. Here, they will share insights into salmon farming in Orkney, the nutritional benefits of Scottish salmon, and its significant role in supporting the local economy.
Additional Contributions from Local Farmers
Scottish Sea Farms has additionally made a notable donation of £10,000 from its ‘Heart of the Community’ fund to the Orkney Islands Games Association’s team, which features more than 200 athletes—the largest cohort in the association’s history. This funding will mainly cover the costs of sporting kits, uniforms, and equipment. Moreover, Scottish Sea Farms will also sponsor the front of the Orkney team’s shirts and donate 60kg of salmon for the event.
Cooke Scotland remains committed as a sponsor for the Shetland Island Games Association, while Bakkafrost Scotland supports the Scottish salmon stand at the Games Expo and provides sponsorship to the Western Isles Island Games Association and their swimming team under the ‘Native Hebridean’ brand.
Significance of Salmon Farming in Orkney
Approximately 15 percent of Scotland’s salmon is farmed in Orkney, where the cold, swift waters create ideal conditions for premium fish, including acclaimed Label Rouge and organic certified salmon. Exports from Orkney reached an impressive £97 million last year, reflecting a 46 percent increase from £66 million in the previous year. Data from HMRC reveals that 11,651 tonnes were exported from Orkney in 2024, comprising around 11 percent of Scotland’s total salmon exports. Salmon farming is a key driver of local employment, supporting around 200 jobs directly and many more in the supply chain.
Voices from the Industry
Colin Blair, managing director of Cooke Scotland, remarked:
“Cooke’s purpose is to cultivate the ocean with care, nourish the world, provide for our families, and build stronger communities. We’re proud to support all the athletes competing at the Games – the wonderful people of Orkney are the perfect tourism hosts, and Scotland is indeed the perfect stage.”
Will Scott, area manager for Orkney at Scottish Sea Farms, added:
“We’re delighted to play a role in the Island Games’ success and, in particular, support Team Orkney on their pursuit for medals. With over 2,000 competitors and many more spectators making their way to Orkney, our thanks and support also go to the organisers and volunteers who will no doubt make the week one for the record books.”
Tavish Scott, chief executive at Salmon Scotland, concluded:
“As a key source of protein, omega-3, and essential vitamins and minerals, Scottish salmon is chosen by athletes for its performance-boosting properties, so it makes perfect sense for salmon farmers to work together to help bring elite-level sporting competition to Orkney.”
With excitement building for this historic event, local salmon farmers are truly demonstrating their commitment to community support and pride in their contributions to the region.
