Rottnest scallops a catch for chefs

Australia's best chefs are champing at the bit to get their hands on Rottnest Island scallops after this week's announcement the fishery will open tomorrow for the first time this year.

Chef Guillaume Brahimi says Rottnest scallops are among the best produce in the country.

"There's not many products out there you get very excited about," Brahimi said. "Rottnest scallops are thick, sweet and have a wonderful texture."

He will serve them next week in his Crown Perth bistro and Bennelong restaurant in Sydney.

One Sea, the company with the only licence to catch the Rottnest scallops, says it intends to fish carefully and briefly.

"The stock has certainly been touched by the recent marine heatwave," One Sea director Clayton Nelson said.

It is likely to take about five tonnes over the next four weeks.

Skipper Wade Hunter prepares for scallop season.

Source: The West Australian, 16 March 2013