Two Beachport men found guilty of abalone offences
Friday 01 November, 2002

Two Beachport men have been found guilty of a number of abalone related fisheries offences in the Mount Gambier Magistrates Court recently.

Daniel Tebecis (39) labourer and Russell Alan Walker (38) unemployed, both of Beachport were found guilty of taking more than the prescribed quantity of abalone, taking abalone without a licence and taking abalone for sale at 5 Mile Rock, just north of Beachport in February 2001.

The Magistrate heard how fisheries officers had observed Tebecis and Walker leaving the water carrying catch bags full of abalone. The two divers disappeared from view for a short period of time before climbing the track back to their vehicle. At this point, Fisheries Officers intercepted the two men. The catch bags that fisheries officers had observed to be full of abalone now contained only one and four abalone respectively.

Fisheries Officers conducted a search of the area and found a quantity of abalone hidden in a beachside cave near where the divers had exited the water. In total, officers found 35 kilograms of abalone, valued at more than $5,500. It was alleged that Tebecis and Walker had hidden the majority of the catch in the cave.

General Manager Fisheries Services, Mark Lewis said the guilty verdict was a pleasing outcome and highlighted the good work being undertaken by fisheries officers to combat illegal fishing.

"Our fish stocks are valuable and illegal activity has the potential to damage their long term sustainability. The message to those considering breaking the law is clear. We will do everything in our power to catch and successfully prosecute those who choose to take the risk and ignore the rules," Mr Lewis said.

Penalties for these types of offences include a maximum fine of $60,000 and/or 2 years imprisonment plus 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.

Tebecis and Walker will appear for sentencing on 15 January 2003.