Hagen Stehr AO | UniSC | University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia

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Hagen Stehr AO

Honorary Doctorate (April 2010)

Hagen Stehr AO was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in April 2010 in recognition of his life’s work to advance sustainable fishing industries of world significance, including through the sponsorship of education and research.

The life story of Hagen Stehr AO is an inspirational one of rags to riches. He arrived in Australia in the '60s penniless. With vision, determination and sheer hard work, he has become one of the most significant people in the world in sponsoring research and education into the commercial fishing and aquaculture industries. Whilst the Stehr group of companies is based in South Australia, this University’s researchers have been involved with him in a collaborative research project into the spawning of Southern Blue Fin Tuna in captivity. A world first, small scale success was gained in 2008, but in 2009, more than 50 million fertilised eggs were obtained. This was an epic breakthrough with huge commercial significance. It was recognised by Time Magazine as the second most important innovation in the world in 2009. Hagen has unparalleled stature as an industry leader, not just as an individual entrepreneur, but as chair of many important fishery bodies concerned with sustainability. He has undoubtedly gained national and international recognition for his personal and professional commitment, but he has also become a powerful, eloquent and persuasive advocate for the advancement of his industry, including at the highest levels of government. It is difficult to imagine a more inspirational leader of any industry than Hagen Stehr in his.