The Theatre of the Wharf
Sydney Fish Market at Blackwattle Bay on the foreshore of the harbour at Pyrmont is the largest fish and seafood market in the southern hemisphere outside of Japan.
Sourcing products both nationally and internationally and trading over 100 species daily, the SFM's mission is to satisfy the cultural and culinary diversity of this superb city.
Historically, the marketing of fish and seafood in New South Wales was undertaken by licensed fishing agents and fishermen's' co-operatives, this arrangement being curtailed in 1945 by the NSW Fish Marketing Authority.
Since moving to the present market in 1966, the operation has grown to become immeasurably more than a mere successful commercial venture. Now boasting two million visitors a year, the market is quickly becoming one of the must-see attractions of the harbour.
The fish and seafood is sold predominantly by auction, a staggering 1000 crates each weighing 23kg being knocked down each hour. This has been made possible by the introduction of new technology and the use of two digital "Dutch Auction" clocks that ensure that trade is maintained at a swift tempo.
In addition to this, since 2001, SFMlive, an on-line based seafood trading system has offered advanced facilities for direct ordering, a true glimpse into the future of fish and seafood sales.
From abalone, Balmain bugs and cuttlefish to squid, tuna and yabbies, in addition to the usual well-known varieties, an incredible 15,000 tonnes annually is handled with award winning standards of food safety.
One of the most rewarding aspects to a visit to the Sydney Fish Market is the Seafood School. Established in 1989, the school now attracts an impressive 14,000 participants a year, all eager to look and learn from some of Sydney's finest celebrity chefs.
So all in all, being a fishing port, wholesale market, retail market with associated fruit vegetable and wine shops, a cookery school with several eateries nearby, the Sydney fish market is every serious foodie's dream location.
Take another look at those fine looking snappers and tell me you're not tempted, bon appetit!