Ardrossan man reported for illegal sale of squid
Tuesday, 17 August 2004

An Ardrossan man will face court charged with fisheries related offences including the illegal sale of squid.

Fisheries Officers from PIRSA Fishwatch investigated the man, an ex-commercial fisherman, over a lengthy period of time. It will be alleged that about 60 kilograms of squid (180 squid) were sold to a Glynde man, who will face charges of purchasing fish not taken pursuant to a licence.

The fish, together with the man’s boat, freezer, 35 squid jags, fishing rods and other assorted items have been seized.

PIRSA General Manager Fisheries Services Mark Lewis said there were a number of ongoing investigations into the sale of fish taken by unlicensed fishers on Yorke Peninsula and that this would continue to be a focus.

“Risk assessments undertaken by PIRSA Fishwatch have continually shown that illegal fish sales are a major threat to the long-term sustainability of the fishery,” Mr Lewis said.

“While investigations of this nature are generally lengthy, they are starting to produce results and those offenders who continually disregard the rules will be prosecuted.”

Penalties for this type of offence can include a maximum penalty of $30,000 as well as the loss of any seized items.