Abalone Fisher Facing Charges
Tuesday, 23 October 2001

A 34 year old man from Port MacDonnell in the State's south-east is facing a number of charges relating to illegal abalone fishing.

Fisheries compliance officers, conducting a routine uniformed patrol, observed the man as he emerged from the water near Cape Douglas in the State's lower south-east. When questioned, the man was found to be in possession of 179 abalone, a number of which were undersized.

General Manager Fisheries Services, Brian Hemming said uniformed patrols play an important part in protecting our fisheries resource. These patrols regularly visit known hot spots based on officers' knowledge and understanding of their local area.

"Irresponsible fishers who break the rules will be caught. And those who are caught face heavy fines if convicted" Mr Hemming said.

Penalties for this type of offence include a maximum fine of $2,000 for exceeding the bag limit, a maximum fine of $8,000 for possessing more than a prescribed quantity and an additional penalty of five times the commercial value of the catch to a maximum of $30,000. The Court also has the power to order the forfeiture of any vehicles and equipment involved in the illegal activity.