Two commercial rock lobster fishers to face quota evasion charges
Thursday 6th January, 2005

Two commercial rock lobster fishers have been reported for various fisheries related offences following two separate operations by Primary Industries and Resources SA (PIRSA) Fisheries Officers in the State’s South-East.

The first report was as a result of a uniform patrol checking commercial rock lobster catches being unloaded at Southend. The second was as a result of a covert, on-water patrol by Fisheries Officers in the same area, checking the operations of commercial rock lobster vessels at sea.

As a result, two commercial rock lobster fishers will be charged with a number of offences relating to quota evasion. Two other men are being investigated in relation to the second incident.

Manager Compliance Operations, Paul Tatarelli said the Southern Zone commercial rock lobster fishery was managed under a total allowable catch quota System and all commercial catch was required to be reported.

"Strict adherence to the catch quota reporting process by all commercial fishers is an integral part of the on-going sustainable management of the rock lobster fishery," Mr Tatarelli said.

"Any attempt to circumvent this process could have dire consequence for the long-term health of the fishery and is considered a serious offence under the Fisheries Act.