Visit of Fortuna Managing Director James Wallace
Report by Head of Tourism Kelly Green
Photos from Julia Gunther
We were especially fortunate during the annual Agulhas trip to have James Wallace, Managing Director of Fortuna Ltd, visiting Tristan. As many will know, Fortuna has been awarded the new lobster fishing concession for the Tristan da Cunha group, set to begin in 2027. Mr Wallace, along with Jan van den Oever, thoroughly enjoyed their time on the island. They walked over the mountain, spent a night or two at the Caves, and even joined in on fishing activities. They also visited Nightingale Island and took part in a week of fishing operations.
Mr Wallace decided to extend his stay, choosing not to return on the SA Agulhas II but instead to leave later on the MFV Edinburgh. As a bonus, by staying longer he was able to see a full week of lobster fishing taking place on the island, which gave him valuable insight into the day-to-day running of the fishery. During his visit, he met with the Island Council, the factory, fishermen, and processing women, and was genuinely open to listening to everybody - anyone who wanted to share their thoughts or experiences. His visit was a real success and left everyone feeling optimistic and excited for the new concession starting in 2027.
James Wallace with members of the Tristan da Cunha Island Council in the Council Chamber on 16th October 2025.
Left to Right - Back Row:
Rodney Green, Janine Lavarello, Simon Glass, Larry Swain, Chief Islander Ian Lavarello, Randall Repetto;
Front Row:
Lorraine Repetto, James Wallace, Administrator Philip Kendall, Iris Green.
Absent Island Councillors: Vera Glass, Allan Swain, Steve Swain.
In his own words, James Wallace reflected:
"The month I spent in Tristan wasn't nearly enough time to experience everything the island has to offer - but we certainly tried. It has been a wonderful experience seeing first-hand the warmth of the community and the excitement about what's ahead.
We have had very positive feedback about what Fortuna is doing to enhance the service - a more reliable link, greater comfort when Tristanians travel, and more income and opportunity for the island. This investment of Falklands capital is about providing security and certainty for the fishery and Tristan's future.
We are very mindful of the island's way of life and culture, and it means a lot that the Council and community have welcomed our approach in that spirit. The Chief Islander, Ian Lavarello, asked whether Fortuna will be visiting regularly - and that's exactly right: it's important to be accountable face-to-face to the community and the Council.
I would especially like to thank James Glass and Rodney Green from the Fisheries Department for their warm hospitality and support throughout our stay. We leave the island with a deep sense of accountability and affection for everyone there, and we are looking forward to the first voyage of the Ranger and the start of operations when the gong rings on 31 December 2026."
We wish Mr Wallace a safe and pleasant trip back on the MFV Edinburgh, and we're grateful for the productive and enjoyable visit we've had with the SA Agulhas II and her team.
Tristan Administrator Philip Kendall shaking hands to say farewell to James Wallace prior to his departure with Island Council members by the famous Tristan sign.
Left to Right - Janine Lavarello, Larry Swain, Lorraine Repetto, Ian Lavarello, James Wallace,
Philip Kendall, Rodney Green, Randall Repetto, Simon Glass, Iris Green.