Two South Coast men to face abalone charges
Thursday 1 June, 2006

Two men will face a number of abalone related charges following a covert operation by Fisheries Officers in the Port Elliot region last month.

The men, a 22 year old from Strathalbyn and a 39 year old from Goolwa were stopped by Fisheries Officers on May 17 following a tip off from a member of the general public via the Fishwatch telephone number (1800 065 522).

The Officers seized 83 blacklip abalone (50% undersize) and a quantity of dive gear. The daily abalone bag limit for a recreational diver is five.

Acting Manager Compliance Operations, Rob Parkes said if it weren’t for the diligence shown by local residents, the illegal activity may never have been reported.

"I encourage members of the public to report any suspicious illegal fishing activity to the 24 hour Fishwatch number," he said.

"This type of information is invaluable in assisting Fisheries Officers to detect illegal activity."

"And while all calls may not generate an immediate response, the information received is valuable in building intelligence about illegal activity."

The men will appear in Court at a later date.