PIRSA Fisheries targets reef pickers
Tuesday, 18 February 2003

Primary Industries and Resources South Australia (PIRSA) Fisheries officers have reported two more people for collecting shellfish from the intertidal reef area at Hallett Cove.

This follows the reporting of five people for similar offences in January 2003.

When stopped by the officers, the two men were found to be in possession of a quantity of shellfish including 231 undersized abalone. The abalone and other shellfish and diving equipment were seized.

General Manager Fisheries Services, Mark Lewis said he believed that a few hardcore repeat offenders were undertaking most of the illegal activity at the reef.

“The two men reported on Sunday are known to PIRSA Fishwatch and have been reported for similar offences in the past,” he said.

“PIRSA Fishwatch will continue to target these groups until they finally get the message that what they are doing is illegal and will not be tolerated.”

In South Australia, it is illegal to remove any plants or animals from any intertidal rocky reef out to a water depth of two metres.

Any suspected illegal fishing activity can be reported 24 hours a day to Fishwatch on 1800 065 522.