Commercial fisher reported for quota evasion
Friday, 7 March 2003

A southern zone commercial rock lobster fisher from Port MacDonnell, in the State’s southeast, has been reported for avoiding quota and other fisheries related offences.

The report resulted from an undercover investigation by Fisheries Officers from Primary Industries and Resources SA.

Officers seized 31 southern rock lobster weighing 21.95 kilograms that had been hidden under a false floor in a tender vessel. The tender vessel was also seized.

PIRSA General Manager Fisheries Services Mark Lewis said his officers would use any means at their disposal to uncover quota evasion.

“The southern zone rock lobster fishery is a quota-based fishery and all commercial fishers are lawfully required to weigh their total catch upon landing. The total weight of the catch is then subtracted from their annual catch quota.”

“Fishers who attempt to avoid reporting their catch face prosecution,” Mr Lewis said.

Investigations are continuing.

The southern zone rock lobster fishery includes the south east of the state from the mouth of the River Murray to the Victorian border. The season runs from 1 October to 30 April each year. One of the tools used to sustainably manage the southern zone rock lobster fishery is by setting a total allowable catch for the fishery.

Media Contact: Mark Lewis, General Manager Fisheries Services, PIRSA Fishwatch 0438 874 245.