Courier in Abalone Poaching Ring Heavily Penalised
Thursday, 18th February 1999

A former Ceduna women alleged to be part of an elaborate abalone poaching ring was fined $40,000 in the Ceduna Magistrates Court yesterday.

The Court also confirmed the forfeiture of a vehicle used in the operation.

Ms Mary-Ann Smith (48), who failed to appear in Court, was found guilty of being in possession in February 1998 of 1,072 abalone (602 undersize) for the purpose of sale. Ms Smith is allegedly now residing in New South Wales.

Acting on information received, Primary Industries and Resource SA Fisheries Compliance Officers stopped Ms Smith’s vehicle, which was carrying the abalone, while it was travelling along the Eyre Highway near Poochera on the State’s far west coast. The vehicle had been reported as being part of the illegal operation.

The Manager of PIRSA Fisheries Compliance, Brian Hemming, said today that this level of abalone poaching was an organised attempt to profit unlawfully from a community-owned resource. He said no stone would be left unturned in prosecuting anyone involved at any level of these illegal operations.

“Even though in this case the defendant wasn’t caught diving for the abalone, she still incurred a substantial penalty for her role in the operation,” he said.

“The abalone fishery in South Australia should be valued by the whole community and it is in everyone’s best interests to see these poaching rings smashed.

“All members of the community are urged to contact FISHWATCH on 1800 065 522 with any information about suspected illegal fishing operations.”