PRO-WEST

PROWESTNovember 2020 Western Australia’s Professional Fishing Industry Magazine Shark Depredation Sound solution or more bite-offs? BUY LOCAL WA hotels want more local seafood WAFIC calls for action on recreational fishing impacts



CONTENTS COVER STORIES PREMIUM PUBLISHERS Shark depredation: For all advPeargtiesitnugrneenrqsufiorirebs rpalneadsse contact Natalie du Preez at Premium Publishers Sound solution or more bite-offs? Mobile: 0426 752 352 Can an innovative, low cost WA product provide email: [email protected] an effective solution to the growing impacts and frustrations of shark bite-offs on commercial and recreational fishers?..............................................................5 Buy Local: Positive signs that locals want more WA seafood on hotel menus...................................................................... 6 More fisheries hook up to MSC: Octopus and sea cucumber join the growing list.....14 WAFIC calls for action on recreational fishing impacts: Exploring the best way to manage growing impacts on fish stocks as WA’s hard borders push more fishers into regional centres, sometimes for weeks on end.........................................................................16 OTHER CONTENT South West Aquaculture challenge................................7 Oil and gas structures become fish havens............................................................................... 8 Keeping our eyes on the water........................................ 9 SIA launches national seafood promotion...............................................................................10 Winning the battle for Shark Bay’s blue swimmers...................................................................... 12 Fremantle blesses its fleet................................................ 13 Back of boat sales proving a winner............................14 WA casts online next for new seafood markets....... 15 Safety and training updates.............................................19 Your say.................................................................................. 22 Seafood exchange.............................................................. 23 Prowest Advertising Western Australia’s professional fishing industry magazine Natalie du Preez - [email protected] Publisher Print ProWest is published by the Chief Executive Officer, Western Proudly printed in Western Australia by Vanguard Press. Australian Fishing Industry Council, ABN 36 814 345 Subscription Level 1, 56 Marine Terrace Fremantle, WA 6160. To subscribe to ProWest email your details, including: PO Box 1605, Fremantle. WA 6959 Name, organization, phone, email and postal address to [email protected] www.wafic.org.au Copyright Editorial enquiries and contributions All material in this magazine is copyright and may not be reproduced in full, by any means, All editorial enquiries should be directed to the Editor, ProWest, without the written permission of the editor. C/- Western Australian Fishing Industry Council. Phone: (08) 9432 7710 Disclaimer Email: [email protected] While every care and precaution has been taken in the preparation of ProWest, no liability can Mail: PO Box 1605, Fremantle. WA 6959. be accepted for errors or omissions therein. Information is published in good faith to stimulate independent investigation by the reader of the matters canvassed. Views and opinions expressed in ProWest do not necessarily reflect those of the management or WAFIC. Western Australia’s Professional Fishing Industry Magazine | P R O W E S T 3

PROWEST The Serengeti Challenge It is a great privilege to release the I feel really privileged to be in the WAFIC inside a sophisticated society with first ProWest magazine for about 11 driver’s seat and assure you I’ll never highly resourced interest groups. So years and I hope you enjoy the stories take anything for granted. I can see we’ve got to pull into a tight pack to and amazing photography of our many of the emerging challenges we operate professionally and seamlessly industry. This is a trial run to test your face and we can never sit back and in a united and integrated way. interest, so your feedback from this relax. As they say in the jungle, the first edition is essential. We need to slowest zebra has to run faster than Speaking of tradition and history, I’d like know whether to continue and, if so, the fastest lion, and the fastest lion to pay tribute to the Founding Fathers which name you’d prefer. To manage only has to run faster than the slowest of our fishing industry here in the State cost and workload, our preference zebra. So whether you’re a lion or a – what a wonderful contribution they would be to publish twice per year. zebra, when you wake up tomorrow have made not only to the industry, their morning you’d better be running as fast families and communities – but also to I started as WAFIC CEO quite recently as you can. And that’s essentially the the true culture of Australia. Many of and after extensive “listen and act” Serengeti Challenge we have at WAFIC. these leaders started with absolutely travel to our coastal communities There are elements within our society nothing apart from an indomitable work feel it’s really important to re- who want to have a piece of us and ethic, a fierce determination to get introduce some tradition into the we’ve simply got to be ahead of the ahead and a willingness to tame the fishing industry. The old ProWest was game - quicker and faster and smarter. risks that Mother Nature threw at them. previously moved from print to online, And they paved the way for the modern electronic publishing and then thin The fishing industry as a whole has world-leading industry we share today. air stages to save money - just like become a little bit fragmented over We applaud you and will be telling some so many other valuable things which recent years and I’m determined to of your stories and paying our respects previously enriched our lives and were gather everything closer together to in many varied ways over the coming discarded through modernisation and make it tight again. This certainly months and years – so watch this cost-cutting. Well we like real chiko doesn’t mean that WAFIC takes over, of space. rolls, vegemite and Holden cars - and course not. The sovereignty of sector prefer the true taste of ProWest too as groups must always be honoured, but I trust you will enjoy this magazine. we feel it’s part of our heritage. We’re it’s abundantly clear that (check out We feel it provides an avenue to hopeful to move to a 32-page edition the picture on the front cover) that demonstrate the fascinating diversity in the future with the costs subsidised we need to stick together so we don’t of the fishing industry as well as its by unobtrusive advertising, but the get picked off by our detractors. Our participants. call is yours. greatest threat is not from the outside, it’s from the type of posture we adopt Cheers Darryl 4 P R O W E S T | Western Australia’s Professional Fishing Industry Magazine

New device brings hope to end shark depredation A revolutionary approach to shark against a range of other sharks, Shark Omni developer, Chris Bignell says depredation is giving hope to including White Sharks, before moving the new device offers potential to minimise thousands of recreational and into a more formal University testing shark bite-offs and help rebuild demersal commercial fishers who are reporting environment. fish stocks. record fish losses to sharks. “We are currently working with WAFIC In some areas of the State, losses and will also work with Recfishwest to to shark depredation (bite-offs) complete the initial trials, but there are anecdotally placed as high as is no doubt this product is extremely 80 percent of all fish caught. This effective,” he added. equates to only two out of every 10 fish caught, being landed in one piece. Recreational fishing versions of Shark Omni are expected to sell for under Fishers are equally frustrated as they $1000 when it goes on sale. can see the growing impact on catch, effort and cost to reach their boat and Fisheries researchers at the Department bag limits. of Primary Industries and Regional Development are currently testing the Chris Bignell, managing director effectiveness of three different shark of shark deterrent company, Omni deterrent devices (electrical, magnetic, Acoustics, said the new Shark Omni acoustic) using a series of standardised product was already proving itself as a sea trials. The Recreational Fishing low-cost innovation to deter sharks – Initiative Fund financed project that even in chummed and baited waters. commenced in March, will be completed June 2021, with trials at the Abrolhos, Shark Omni works by replicating Shark Bay, Exmouth and Montebellos the sounds of Orcas/Killer Whales already completed. when they are hunting and plays them through a unique module that Following further trials early next spreads the sound underwater up to a year, results of the study will be kilometre or more away. presented to recreational fishers via a shark depredation roadshow in “When sharks hear and feel the May-June at regional centres from signals, there is no doubt that it is Geraldton to Broome. effective. In some cases, the response has been so quick and dramatic that For more information on the trials we haven’t been able to film it. The contact Dr Gary Jackson at Gary. sharks are there and then they’re gone [email protected]. – sometimes for days,” he said. For more information and to place pre- Mr Bignell is now trialling the product orders visit www.sharkomni.com.au Government adds $11 million in seafood relief The Australia Government is providing further financial relief to assist maritime businesses with an additional $11 million funding in 2021-22 for the National System for Domestic Commercial Vessel Safety. The funds will allow the Australian Maritime Safety Association to deliver vital safety regulation for our maritime communities while supporting a 12 month delay of a planned review of costs and charges for the National System, which will provide further certainty for affected industries. The new funding means no levy will be charged in 2021-22. Details can be found at: https://minister.infrastructure.gov.au/mccormack/media-release/budget-continues-relief- australias-domestic-commercial-vessel-industry. Western Australia’s Professional Fishing Industry Magazine | P R O W E S T 5

PROWEST WA hotels push for more local seafood on menus A recent WAFIC promotion to promote The Clancy’s Fish one of Western Australia’s lesser- Bar team is working known seafood species has seen to put more WA growth in demand for Albany’s sand seafood on local crabs and has also seen some of WA’s menus. Albany sand largest restaurants call out to include crab fisherman, Eric more WA seafood on their menus. Tranthem is pictured (left to right) with The Albany sand crab promotion, Clancy’s Executive which was sold out a week before its Chef, Ashley launch, was managed alongside the Ryan; WA seafood team at Clancy’s Fish Pub and was ambassador Don an outstanding success, with early Hancey; and chef demand for the south coast crabs Dan Hansen. currently outstripping supply. our most popular seafood varieties “Everyone left the dinner raving about Clancy’s Fish Pub executive chef, alongside lesser-known species and these surprising delicacies,” Alejandro Ashley Ryan said the restaurant group opened discussions on how seafoods said. was keen to introduce new, lesser- may be prepared and presented along known species onto its menu. with seasonal supply and costs. WAFIC chief executive, Darryl Hockey, said that while numerous research “We will always carry the favourites that Pan Pacific Perth’s renowned studies have confirmed a preference our diners are keen to order, but we are executive chef, Alejandro Saravia is for local seafoods among WA also keen to find the next ‘big thing’ that also driving a strong campaign to consumers, past local sales have not offers an amazing taste experience, but increase WA’s seafood presence, with reflected this trend. is also affordable and can be presented a goal of featuring a minimum of 85 in a number of dishes. percent local produce at its award- “However, one of the positive winning Uma restaurant. outcomes of COVID-19 has been “Sand crabs fit this perfectly as they an enhanced awareness among are a lovely meaty crab with sweet The program saw more than 100 locals consumers of the need to support flesh and plenty of it. Because they book into the sell-out gala seafood local suppliers and local brands. This are lesser known they are also priced event last month, which was also has been a major turning point for WA below the blue swimmers which are supported by Audi and the Good Food seafood sales and we are working also extremely popular,” Ashley said. Guide. closely with the food service sector to build into this space,” Darryl said. To support this trendsetting reputation, “Western Australia has exceptional WAFIC is working with Clancy’s on a seafood and I am committed to include As part of this promotion, WAFIC is range of other species which will roll as much local content on our menus developing a website and a range of out over coming months. as possible. It’s all about balancing tools and promotions to help consumers the quality and varieties with to better understand WA’s seafood Other restaurants are also keenly affordability and always introducing varieties, some of the State’s amazing watching the growing trend for local something that is a surprise – like our seafood experiences, the industry’s seafood and are now actively working recent inclusion of Akoya Oysters and commitment to sustainable, healthy to increase the number and diversity champagne crab. oceans and provide an insight into the of WA seafood products on their lifestyle of WA’s fishing communities. menus. Pan Pacific Hotel Perth’s Uma restaurant had a sell out event for WA seafood last month as part of its Crown Hotels is working with WAFIC Good Food Guide promotion. and WA seafood ambassador, Don Hancey, who is running workshops with the hotel group’s culinary team. Other hospitality groups are also working with WAFIC to buy more local seafood. Don is already running workshops and demonstrations with the food service teams at Crown alongside Fremantle fishing identity, Jim Mendolia. The presentations showcase some of 6 P R O W E S T | Western Australia’s Professional Fishing Industry Magazine

Aquaculture tipped for major regional growth The WA Government’s plans to having no objections in principle, a WAFIC raised its concerns and DPIRD increase aquaculture operations number of factors were identified agreed to another consultation around the State hit a speed which indicated that the site was meeting which soon identified that bump last month with the seafood probably unsuitable. This was a the historical activities of local industry pushing back over a lack of perfect example of drawing on years of commercial fishers were likely to be consultation relating to the Albany expertise from local fishers and using significantly impacted at this site. aquaculture development zone. this to better inform an evaluation This creates a real challenge given the process. gazettal has already been finalised, Aquaculture is a priority sector for the so we will be working closely with WA Government. Over the past three Albany is a different case. The government to ensure that a fair and years, the State has declared and fully proposed aquaculture zones in sensible outcome can be identified. allocated the Mid West Aquaculture Princess Royal Harbour and King Development Zone off Geraldton, George Sound have not yet been As an outcome of this process, WAFIC supported the establishment of a South gazetted, so they offer plenty has lobbied the State Government Coast development zone, joined with of opportunity to listen to the to adopt and embed a stronger the Aquaculture Council of WA to build commercial fishing sector during the consultation process for future and operate Albany’s Shellfish Hatchery ongoing consultation process. This aquaculture zones. to support industry, invested $7million is important, as some of the sites to construct a Marine Finfish Nursery at are likely to impact on historical While the industry is generally Geraldton and carried out upgrades to operations and with some sensible supportive of the expansion of vital fish health and research services. adjustments it is expected that an aquaculture, it is critical that the outcome which is satisfactory for all impact on existing commercial fishers Under the plan, the Department stakeholders can be achieved. is minimised. of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has identified a The real challenge lies in the Oyster Western Australia’s growing site at the South East end of Wyllie Bay, Harbour zone where the consultation aquaculture industry offers great about 25 kilometre from Esperance process was inadequate. Locals potential to attract significant new township. WAFIC is a strong supporter were given an early opportunity for investment for the State. of aquaculture and has made sound comment, but once the Master Plan representations to DPIRD to ensure a had been decided upon there was In June, the United Nations Food and deeper level of engagement with the no opportunity for public review Agriculture Organization estimated commercial fishing sector. and comment before the area overall aquaculture production for was gazetted and applications for human consumption will grow by more The feedback from local Esperance proposed aquaculture developments than 30 percent in this decade. fishers was extremely valuable. While invited. Darryl Hockey South Coast aquaculture tipped for growth Western Australia’s Professional Fishing Industry Magazine | P R O W E S T 7

PROWEST Oil and gas infrastructures become fish havens Natural and man-made reef structures After reviewing existing research and The FRDC study have long been known as fish havens conducting surveys and focus groups has found by keen anglers, but the broader with stakeholders, Euan Harvey says significant merit impacts of discarded man-made the research has found clear evidence in leaving man- infrastructure scattered across the that all five of the built structures do, made structures, ocean floor has been a topic of hot in fact, have ecological, social and including oil and debate for decades. economic value. gas infrastructure in place as artificial Now a study, funded by the Fisheries The study has also been able to reefs. Research and Development model the economic cost of removing Corporation (FRDC) is shedding the structures or, alternatively, Image courtesy new light on the afterlife of these transforming them into artificial reefs. of DPIRD structures and how they may support healthy oceans for commercial and Recfishwest chief executive Andrew the design and installation of future recreational fishers. Rowland says recreational fishers are marine infrastructure projects, such aware of the benefits of built marine as wind and wave renewable energy The FRDC-funded project is assessing structures. Even though they are not projects.” says Professor Euan Harvey. the decommissioning process to currently allowed to fish in the exclusion “Structures could be designed with determine the social and economic zones around oil and gas platforms, he decommissioning and removal in mind”. value of these structures, which will, says the sector recognises the value in part, help policymakers decide of the marine life that has grown on, The structures are also seen as whether oil and gas infrastructure around and near these structures. a positive development for the should remain in place when it reaches commercial marine aquarium fishery the end of its commercial life. It is “From our perspective, we’re looking which harvest and sell fish, corals, also assessing the risks and concerns at the end of life of these structures, specimen shells and other marine life related to leaving these structures in how we can capitalise on those for aquariums around the world, with place. ecosystem benefits for new fishing the abundance of sea life providing experiences,” he said. a sustainable supply of high quality The project is looking at five case species. studies: the Busselton Jetty; the The research is also addressing Exmouth Navy Pier; the Exmouth possible concerns associated with You can read and download a copy Integrated Artificial Reef; offshore oil leaving the structures in place, such of the report at www.frdc.com.au/ and gas structures in the Echo Yodel as the potential of chemical leaching project/2018-053 field in the North West Shelf; and into the environment and the long- Chevron’s pipelines and platforms term legal liability and responsibility Want to know more? around Thevenard Island. for clean-up, if issues are identified 50 or 100 years from now. Further information can be found “Fish populations around some of in Barbara Adam’s article in FRDC’s the platforms near Thevenard Island “Our work will inform future FISH magazine which can be (off the coast of Onslow in the Pilbara policy decisions, not only for the downloaded at http://www.frdc. region of WA) are about 200 times decommissioning of built structures com.au/media-publications/ greater than on the natural reef,” says in marine environments, but also for fish/FISH-Vol-28-2/Assessing- project leader Euan Harvey, professor end-of-life-benefits-for-ocean- of marine science in the School of infrastructure Molecular and Life Sciences at Curtin University. The Fisheries Research and Development Corporation When this infrastructure was installed (FRDC) invests in Knowledge for in the 1990s, the regulations clearly fishing and aquaculture into stated that the whole lot had to be the future. The FRDC is a co- removed once the project finished. funded partnership between, the Now, this research has established Australian Government and the that the ecosystems formed around fishing and aquaculture sectors. the five structures hold substantial ecological, social and economic value for commercial and recreational fishing, as well as associated tourism. 8 P R O W E S T | Western Australia’s Professional Fishing Industry Magazine

Keeping our eyes on the water Tasmania launches Seafood Trails app With 20,000 kilometres of remote and Now in its second year, the program is for tourists isolated coastline to monitor, WAFIC a successful collaboration between and its seafood industry members last law enforcement, biosecurity staff, The Tasmanian Seafood Industry year teamed up with the WA Police rangers and hundreds of WA’s Council has launched a new web- (WAPOL) and Australia’s border security commercial fishers who work the app that lets users learn about and forces to provide a new layer of security coastal waters day and night. interact with the State’s seafood for the State’s expansive coastline. industry and create their own self- The partnership clearly shows drive tours to explore the best Under the agreement, the WA Police and evidence of the critical role that the seafood experiences on offer. the WA commercial seafood industry seafood industry plays in protecting partnered up to ensure there are the whole community, while providing The Seafood Trails web app includes regular ‘eyes on the water’ watching regional employment and contributing trail routes, destination information, for unlawful activities and protecting to the WA economy. seafood experiences, videos, history, our shorelines from illegal activity, drug information, events and more. imports and invasive species. Commercial fishers with urgent reports should contact the special hotline New content is being added The partnership is an important one 0455 956 872, while non-urgent regularly to the app to make it a to help fight the war on criminal reports should be directed through comprehensive resource for tourists activity as well as biosecurity risks in Crimestoppers, on the toll-free and holidaymakers to interact with WA waters and has already delivered number 1800 333 000, or online at the seafood industry. effective results, including a $1 www.crimestoppers.com.au billion drug seizure onboard a yacht New features, such as push after local fishing vessels reported Commercial fishers are asked to put notifications for ‘off the wharf sales’ suspicious activities and unusual the number into their phone contacts and events/festivals postings are movements of the crew. list for quick referral if needed. scheduled soon. With 20,000 The web-app will soon be available for kilometres of smartphone downloads on the Google coastline, our Play Store and iOS App Store. commercial fishers play an important WAFIC is monitoring progress to see if role in border it has applications for WA. security. SIA launches online fish finder As part of the Great Australian Seafood updated, so if that’s you, please Supplier of the finest consumers brand launch, Seafood send your shop name, address, shavings for air freight Industry Australia (SIA) has launched a website and email address to info@ packaging of live seafood new online tool to help consumers find seafoodindustryaustralia.com.au local fish retailers, as well as fish and for over 20 years. chips, straight from their phone. Contact Nancy McKinnon: Check it out at 0418 949 959 www.greataustralianseafood.com.au/ fish-finder 20-22 Elgee Road Bellevue, Western Australia 6056 The new online tool coincides with SIA’s new marketing campaign launch Tel: (08) 9274 7999 and opens a map of your nearby area, Email: [email protected] highlighting locations of local fish retailers and other seafood outlets. www.wapineshavings.com.au The full listing of retail and fish and chip outlets is still being Western Australia’s Professional Fishing Industry Magazine | P R O W E S T 9

PROWEST SIA launches national seafood marketing campaign: Easy As! Seafood Industry Australia (SIA) has with our ‘Easy As’ campaign, and New logo is designed to reflect Australia, launched the first whole-of-industry see our extensive planning come to seafood and the fluid marine environment. marketing campaign to promote life,” SIA Media and Communications Australian seafood and unveiled Manager Jessica McInerney said. metro TV and streaming platforms, the nation’s flagship brand, Great out-of-home including shopping Australian Seafood. “Consumer support for domestic centres, street furniture and roadside, produce is high in the wake of digital partnership with BuzzFeed The new campaign has been launched coronavirus, and behaviour is shifting Tasty and NewsCorp, social media and to encourage Australians to eat more to prioritise locally grown and made Search Engine Marketing. Australian seafood as the industry products. There has never been a “The campaign has been structured recovers from the impacts of the more timely opportunity for us to to influence and inspire consumers to COVID-19 economic crisis. launch our consumer brand campaign add more Australian seafood into their and we are excited to have the diets by showcasing it’s ‘easy as’ to “Earlier this year, the Coalition opportunity to join consumers as they cook and incorporate into daily life,” announced a $4 million marketing re-evaluate their purchasing routines Mrs McInerney said. grant, funded by the Australian and where Australian seafood is “It includes the launch of the new Government under the $1 billion positioned in their minds. brand identity including logo and COVID-19 Relief and Recovery Fund, as name, the ‘Easy As’ marketing a direct response to the coronavirus “We’re realistic about what we want to campaign, consumer-facing website pandemic and the need to deliver achieve and the timescales required and social media platforms.” a boost to our industry,” SIA CEO for this. We know we won’t change “SIA was created with the mandate Veronica Papacosta said. national attitudes overnight, which is to promote, protect and develop the why the Great Australian Seafood brand Australian seafood industry with the “The Australian seafood industry is a long-term initiative designed to support of industry and the Federal was the first and worst hit by the build a relationship with the nation. Government, and we have been able pandemic. Our export markets We’re aiming to inspire a generational to do just that,” Ms Papacosta said. collapsed, our foodservice sector shift in attitude towards seafood was shut down, and our domestic consumption and with the industry. We Expect to see more markets were flooded with produce. want to continue to tell the story of our seafood marketing This campaign is led by industry, for incredible industry well into the future.” in the media and on industry to drive a much needed boost the street over the in domestic sales. The 12 month campaign will engage next 12 months. consumers a number of times over its “Our planning has allowed us to life. Activity includes consumer-facing develop Great Australian Seafood as advertising across all regional and a powerful brand, built and owned by the seafood industry. The creation of our Sector Marketing Committee, with members representing businesses across the entire seafood supply chain, will see SIA embed industry expertise and insights into the fabric of the brand for the benefit of both businesses and consumers alike.” The campaign, which launched on 8 November, sees the industry establish its first whole-of-industry brand similar to Australian Pork Limited’s Australian Pork, and Meat and Livestock Australia’s Lamb 100% Australian and Australian Beef. “We’re incredibly excited to launch the Great Australian Seafood brand along 10 P R O W E S T | Western Australia’s Professional Fishing Industry Magazine

World Leading Sustainable Fishery The western rock Who we are lobster fishery is Australia’s most Western Rock Lobster Council is the peak valuable single-species industry body representing the interests wild capture fishery of the western rock lobster fishery. The world’s first Formed in 2001 as the single voice for Marine Stewardship the industry, WRL advocates for resource Council certified access security for our fishers and the sustainable fishery families and communities that depend on it. Global leaders in innovation and sustainable resource management for our iconic lobster fishery www.westernrocklobster.org [email protected] 08 9432 7722 28 Mews Road, Fremantle WA 6160

PROWEST Winning the battle for Shark Bay’s blue swimmer crabs Shark Bay blue swimmer crabs are Planning, patience and a commitment to sustainable oceans has returned Shark Bay’s crab reporting their best season in more than population back to record levels. ten years as local stocks rebound on the back of a long-term management plan. stocks and environment. The process with comments relating to size, weight, has taken the best part of ten years catch effort and other observations, After a decade long battle, Shark Bay’s to support a robust return of crabs so we are constantly tracking recovery blue swimmer crab population is back to stocks to the region. milestones and adapting accordingly. its best with a sustainable management program rebuilding stocks after the “After a decade of careful management “A lot of people think commercial 2010/2011 marine heatwave and we are seeing the Shark Bay fishery fishers are just harvesting what they multiple floodings decimated the fishery. once again return to its status as want, but we have a vested interest Australia’s highest producing blue in ensuring our oceans are healthy Today, the fishery is reporting swimmer crab fishery,” Darryl said. and producing sustainable volumes of sustainable catches of 650 tonnes crabs,” Peter said. per year, which is on par with historic Day-to-day oversight has been records and represents around 45 managed by fishing licence holders who The close management of the fishery percent of the State’s total catch of work closely with marine scientists from has also opened the door to the blue swimmer crabs. the Department of Primary Industries development of new innovations and and Regional Development (DPIRD). trapping methods. The success of the industry’s management plan is based on world- Shark Bay crab fisherman, Peter Jecks A new pot design, developed by local leading science and a commitment to said the success in restoring the crab fishermen is proving to be around sustainable fisheries. fishery has been a joint effort between 300 percent more effective than the industry and government. traditional model and opening the door WAFIC chief executive, Darryl Hockey to global sales. said the Shark Bay recovery was a “When crab numbers dropped in great example of stakeholders working 2010/2011 local commercial fishers “They say necessity is the mother of together to support healthier oceans called on the Fisheries Minister to invention and we have invented what and improved outcomes for fishers and close the fishery despite the financial we believe is the world’s most effective communities. impact it would place on themselves. crab trap. They work so well we caught 72 tonnes more than last year in 60 “Shark Bay is a great example of how “We could see through our catch reports days less time,” Peter said. the seafood industry can achieve what lay ahead and it was better to world-class outcomes when we work close the fishery immediately with the For Shark Bay’s crab fishers, long-term as a united team. This success is the hope of recovery rather than continuing success is all about finding the balance result of good marine science which to fish and ruin it forever,” he said. between fishing economics and helped us to understand what is sustainability. happening with the fishery dynamics, The plan worked and the past season and the commitment made by the was the best in 15 years. “If you lose track of either of these industry to sustainability to ensure elements, your business will fail. We recovery milestones were met and the “Our fishers are an integral part of the understand this better than most fishery had its best opportunity for full success of rebuilding the Shark Bay crab people and have enormous confidence recovery,” he said. population. Every time we go out our in where we can take our fishery into catch volumes are reported and shared the future,” Peter added. An ongoing monitoring program is with marine scientists at DPIRD along also in place to adapt and adjust as conditions fluctuate. “The Shark Bay crab fishery presents an excellent example of science and industry working in synergy,” Darryl added. In 2012, local fishers proposed a voluntary closure of the Shark Bay fishery which was supported by an intensive program of monitoring the 12 P R O W E S T | Western Australia’s Professional Fishing Industry Magazine

Fremantle Fleet blessed despite COVID threat While COVID-19 restrictions may While on a much smaller scale to previous year, the annual Blessing of the Fleet celebrations have stopped the traditional street saw Bishop Justin Bianchini share blessings from the Jenna Rose alongside local fishers. procession, nothing was going to stop local fishermen from undertaking their annual Blessing of the Fremantle Fleet celebrations. Like many things in 2020, the event took on a very different look this year, but the core elements were retained including the Holy Mass and the official blessings which were shared by Bishop Justin Bianchini aboard the Jenna Rose, which was generously provided by Mr Larry Amato and his family. It was the first time in 70 years that the fleet celebrations didn’t pass through the streets of Fremantle, so we are all hoping for fresh beginnings in 2021. Long roads and lots of meetings as WAFIC attends industry meetings and workshops It’s that time of year when the WAFIC The new aquaculture zone gazettal in Likewise, discussions were held in team is out and about with our industry Oyster Harbour and plans for a number Cervantes where the focus was on the partners for the annual management of ocean sites are concerning local surge of recreational fishing pressures meetings and some Annual General fishers who can see their long-standing from increased domestic tourism during Meetings. practices being significantly impacted. COVID, the associated impacts on We undertook a number of subsequent commercial catches and diminishing Over the past six weeks the CEO alone meetings and it seems that all of the shopfront availability of table fish in has clocked up more than 7000 kms on matters have now been satisfactorily Jurien Bay. the road. resolved – which is a great relief and a triumph for common sense. Dongara hosted a management meeting Meetings in Esperance addressed local for west coast demersal and issues management challenges, emerging The AGM for Southern Seafood Producers relating to recreational catch and shark concerns about marine parks, in- was held in Bunbury and a wide range of depredation were at the top of the list. depth discussions on aquaculture and issues were discussed, with a particular These same matters were raised at the increasing challenges of marine focus on Ngari Capes compensation, the Gascoyne management meeting safety compliance. In addition, a Deep as well as growing recreational fishing held in Geraldton. On a separate trip to Sea Crustaceans meeting called for a pressures. Geraldton the CEO attended the Western voluntary quota to be implemented, Rock Lobster Council AGM. which is a giant first step towards Many management-related meetings possible co-management. were held in Fremantle, including It is evident that our industry as a whole sharks, octopus, Shark Bay trawl, blue is in good hands – the meetings have Processing issues and marina plans swimmer crabs and rock lobster. By been well-attended, the discussions were to the fore at Bremer Bay, while invitation, the CEO met with a group have been very impressive – always Albany presented a number of specific of interested fishing families in Ledge intelligent and thoughtful - and challenges – particularly those relating to Point who shared valuable insights to be importantly there’s a healthy wave of estuarine, demersal and marine parks. incorporated in WAFIC’s new direction. younger people participating. Western Australia’s Professional Fishing Industry Magazine | P R O W E S T 13

PROWEST Back of Boat lobster sales a winner for local community Changes to legislation to allow the response to the program commercial rock lobster fishers to has been very encouraging with once again sell lobsters directly from a large volume of enquiries from back of boat is proving to be a winner the local community wanting to for local communities and is tipped to purchase fresh, local lobster. provide a regular supply of lobsters for local consumption and tourism. “We’ve seen increased Under the changes, western rock engagement between the local lobster fishers are able to sell up to 100 lobsters per trip directly to local community and our fishers restaurants, fresh fish retailers and the public all year round. as the public welcomes the WA Fisheries Minister, Peter Tinley, opportunity to have western Back of boat sales are proving a winner for communities approved the changes in response to rock lobster more readily keen to purchase fresh, local lobsters the immediate impacts experienced by the western rock lobster fishery as a available and accessible. This result of COVID-19. The WA Government has worked closely with the industry community connection is to implement the changes to maintain local employment, increase the important to our industry and The changes ensure that the BOB accessibility and availability of lobster now we have a sales channel that will sales remain within the sustainability on the local market and minimise the offer the lowest cost for year-round limits for the fishery, which is highly economic fallout from the pandemic. sales directly to the public,” he said. important to western rock lobster “This also presents a unique tourism To ensure retailers and exporters are fishers. It is also anticipated that this opportunity for our coastal fishing towns to promote back of boat sales not disadvantaged, pricing is based mechanism will reduce the illegal to visitors and help them to enjoy fresh lobster bought directly from the on the ‘beach price’ (which is similar black market take and sale of western fishers who caught it,” Mr Tinley said. to a wholesale price in other sales rock lobster. environments) although ultimately the Matt Taylor, CEO of the industry’s peak price will be negotiated between the WRL is encouraging the community to body Western Rock Lobster (WRL), said fisher and the purchaser. connect with local fishers to form an ongoing relationship for the supply of WRL Deputy Chair Fedele Camarda said, lobster. “BOB sales creates a permanent platform for fishers to sell lobster directly to the You’ll find more information on the public in both metropolitan and regional program on the Facebook page areas. This allows restaurants and https://www.facebook.com/ tourists to purchase fresh lobster easily BackofBoatLobsters or by emailing and consistently throughout the year”. [email protected]. WA remains hooked on MSC Western Australia’s commitment to gold The new MSC fisheries are a major WA’s Octopus fishery is the second in the world standard sustainability certification has achievement, with the sea cucumber to attain MSC certification. seen two more fisheries sign up to the certification currently the only sea prestigious Marine Stewardship Council cucumber fishery in the world to (MSC) certification, which highlights the achieve MSC certification, while highest level of sustainability a fishery the octopus fishery is only the can achieve. second in the world to attain MSC certification. WA’s world-leading octopus and sea cucumber fisheries brings to 10, the total Both fisheries are now eligible to carry number of WA fisheries now certified the MSC’s trademark blue tick logo, by MSC. This is in addition to two further providing assurance to seafood buyers MSC certified toothfish fisheries at Heard and consumers worldwide that the Island and McDonald Island, which are in seafood is fully traceable back to a Commonwealth waters. sustainable fishery. 14 P R O W E S T | Western Australia’s Professional Fishing Industry Magazine

WA casts online net for new seafood markets Western Australia’s Fishing Industry Mantis Shrimp and Scampi. The success of Council recently took advantage of the inaugural video-conference technology and Austrade Business Development WA Seafood changing market conditions to secure Manager, Jennifer Chen said Taiwan Showcase new export opportunities and business has historically been a reliable and virtual business- partners for the State’s commercial trusted trading partner for Western matching event seafood industry. Australian seafood. has provide a template for The inaugural Western Australian “I am excited to see these business future online Virtual Seafood Showcase, held in opportunities with Western Australia trade events. late August, brought together eight develop and being given a renewed life of the State’s successful seafood in these challenging times. buyers are keen to establish long-term exporters for a series of one-on-one trade agreements,” Jennifer noted. presentations with Taiwan’s leading “With high quality products and seafood importers. workable flights from Perth, some of The business-matching event is also the world’s best seafood is only a few seeking to build strong, enduring The virtual event was jointly managed hours away from Taiwan restaurant relationships with international buyers by the Australian Trade Commission tables, and with favourable exchange which recognise the importance and (Austrade) in Taipei and the Western rates and trading conditions local value of quality seafood and Marine Australian Fishing Industry Council in Stewardship Council certification. Fremantle. MSC-certification ensures consumers This online business introduction and can trust the source and sustainability business-matching service brought of their seafood. together leading seafood importers, wholesalers and restaurateurs in WAFIC will now use the Taipei event Taiwan seeking high quality premium as the benchmark and template for products from Western Australia potential future virtual market and including Saucer Scallops, Greenlip, buyer introductions via Austrade and Brownlip and Roei Abalone, Western other government and private entities. Rock and Southern Rock Lobster, ocean-caught Tiger, King and Banana prawns, deep sea crab varieties, k™ ½™™• õÃàÑ ¢™™•ƒµ R§ƒÑ™ õÃàÑ Û§ÃࣧÛÕ Ã½ k !( Õ љΙ• KÑÃk™ÕÛ ¼ƒ£ƒú©½™} \"ÃÛ ƒ ÕÛÃÑõ õÃà ïƒ½Û àÕ Ûà ·Ãõ ƒÛ \"ÃÛ Õü™ ΧÃÛÃÕ õÃà ïƒ½Û Ûà էƒÑ™ R™½• õÃàÑ Ã¼¼™½ÛÕ ƒ½• ÕÛÃÑõ ©•™ƒÕ Ûà Ã¼¼à½©ƒÛ©Ã½Õ²ïƒ¢©}ÃÑ£}ƒà Western Australia’s Professional Fishing Industry Magazine | P R O W E S T 15



WAFIC “We know there CEO, Darryl is a depletion in stocks, but we Hockey need to quantify to what extent this is occurring” Shark depredation, also known as bite-offs, are taking a huge toll on local fish stocks. WAFIC is calling for more timely research into stock levels of demersals and other highly prized table fish. “However, for recreational catches the fishers provide accurate daily catch Shark depredation, commonly known as current measure involves undertaking records, including species and size. ‘bite-offs’, is also a growing problem, occasional surveys, random checks This would also include a record kept of with some northern fishers claiming at boat ramps and then using a set of any fish bitten off by sharks as well as a high percentage of their demersal broad assumptions to extrapolate the how many undersized fish are returned catch is taken by sharks before being data to provide final stock estimates. to the water. landed. If so, the bag limit is not an This is handy but clearly it can be a accurate measure of how many fish very inexact process, so we believe it’s “In the meantime, it should be quite are actually lost from the population on time to introduce a daily record keeping straightforward to fast-track the that day. system for the recreational sector development of a simple smartphone which provides timely and accurate app or electronic logbook so that data “We are happy to work closely, data,” he added. entry is easy for the user and sent constructively and collaboratively through by SMS for real-time scientific with RecFishWest and DPIRD to ensure Recreational bag limits are calculated analysis. enhanced data collection processes on the assumption that the average can be introduced as soon as possible fishing person participates for a limited “We are not talking about beach or jetty to ensure unintended pressures are number of days per year, however with fishing at this stage, we are simply not placed on valuable fish breeding thousands of people unable to holiday focused on valuable prized demersal stocks. in Bali or Phuket, the State’s west and species like dhufish, snapper, coral south coasts are now populated with trout, red emperor and baldchin groper “In addition, with regard to the tourists who are sometimes fishing for - and rock lobsters,” he said. increasing losses of prized fish by shark many days on end. depredation, the commercial fishing Mr Hockey acknowledged the sector offers its open assistance to Adding to the challenge is the overwhelming majority of recreational work with the recreational sector to increased recreational use of highly fishing people are extremely alleviate the impacts of shark activity sophisticated GPS technology for the responsible and will welcome the best in a sensible and targeted manner exact targeting of species, so the rate technology being applied to accurately to allow greater success rates of of success is much higher than in the account for the recreational take. recreational catches and less pressure past. on the availability of prized table fish,” “It’s in the best interests of the Mr Hockey said. “To get things started, we believe that community and we’d like to think a manual logbook system should be there would be a high level of willing immediately introduced to ensure boat voluntary uptake,” he said. Western Australia’s Professional Fishing Industry Magazine | P R O W E S T 17

PROWEST Safety in 2020: Your choices and consequences In every part of our daily lives we consistent safe vessel operation to assist those who seek help and make choices. In each case the will benefit from the consequences demonstrate willingness to make choices we make have consequences - improved safety, retention of crew, progress, however they are now – good and bad. In most cases the less breakdowns, reduced regulatory indicating they will apply the full force upcoming consequences are known compliance (eg extended survey of the law (Tiers 3 and 4) on those who prior to making the choice and are periods) resulting in reduced red tape continue to make the choice to ignore the reasons we make that particular and cost to the vessel. applying contemporary workplace choice pathway, while in others the safety management arrangements. consequences are unforeseeable. Those who make the choice not to take up this responsibility will The fishing industry is under extreme There are consequences arising even also face consequences as the focus following several tragic where the choice is to do nothing, or authorities will make decisions for incidents resulting in losses of life to ignore the laws of the land. them, requiring improvements over in recent years across the nation. a set period of time, a fine for a This places significant pressure on Over the past 20 years there has been breach, or stopping a vessel from industry and managing agencies alike. a fundamental shift in community going-to-sea until problems are Coronial inquiries in each case have expectations for stronger workplace rectified. Recent changes to the WA highlighted the need for improvements safety management. This shift workplace legislation introduced in workplace safety on fishing vessels, has picked up the traditionally ‘industrial manslaughter’ charges including mandatory wearing of independent primary industries for owners and operators who are lifejackets. such as agriculture and fishing, with unable to demonstrate a considered the community demanding greater and responsibly applied vessel safety This leaves fishing vessel owners and regulation to ensure operators formally management system was in place at operators with the choice to become demonstrate their individual vessel the time of loss of a life. involved in the new marine safety workplace safety arrangements. management approach – or not. AMSA applies a pyramid decision (top During this same period, governments’ right) making approach to their marine Either choice has consequences. across Australia agreed to changed safety management with the focus on delivery of marine safety management encouraging voluntary compliance. Further information can be from individual state-based marine found at: authorities to a single, national To date government has spent the last jurisdiction in an effort to harmonise five years operating with the lower Safety Management Systems: safety management activities across two tiers of the pyramid - educating www.amsa.gov.au/vessels- Australia to reduce red tape, reduce and assisting the commercial operators/domestic-commercial- costs and improve safety. vessel industry (including fishing) to vessels/safety-management- understand the changes to the marine systems National marine safety in Australia is safety management approach. They now managed through the Australian have provided liaison officers in every AFMA Connect: www.amsa.gov.au/ Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), state, copious amounts of educational about/who-we-are/amsa-connect which took over full management material in hard-copy and electronic responsibility on 1 July 2018. means, SMS workshops, 24-hour help AFMA Liaison Office (WA) – Chris desks, websites, social media and on- Battel, [email protected] or This new approach is focused on a wharf inspectors. phone 0437 788 291 ‘trust and verify’ system applied by the regulator placing greater responsibility The authorities have now reached Brett McCallum- WAFIC Safety and on the vessel operators (owners, the point where they will continue Training Consultant skipper and crew) to manage safety on a vessel. Legislation requires owners and operators to identify hazards, measure the risk and then mitigate that risk through active management measures such as standard operating procedures, training, at-sea-practice drills and to incorporate these activities into a documented safety management systems (SMS). Those who make the choice to demonstrate their system for a 18 P R O W E S T | Western Australia’s Professional Fishing Industry Magazine

New EPIRB laws floated from 1 January From 1 January 2021, new laws come Not according to AMSA, which New EPIRB laws come into effect from 1 into effect to enforce the mandatory recommends boat owners purchase an January, so go online to confirm how they installation of a float-free Emergency EPIRB that is fitted with a GPS device. apply to you. Positioning Indicating Radio Beacon, or EPIRB, on vessels over 12 metres in The GPS feature reduces the detection manual or water-activated EPIRB in a length. time to a few minutes, compared to manual bracket, instead of carrying up to a full hour for an EPIRB model a float-free EPIRB, under a range of These EPIRBs are fitted in a bracket without a GPS system. conditions and environments. which allows them to float to the water’s surface when a vessel is In addition, an EPIRB not equipped It is important that you check what submerged to a depth of one to four with GPS generates a signal radius your requirements are and be prepared metres. of approximately five kilometres, for the upcoming changes. whereas an EPIRB with integrated GPS For vessels under 12 metres, EPIRBs will provide positioning within 100 For more visit www.amsa.gov.au are still required based on a range metres. of criteria, so check the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) While this may not sound significant website to find out more and ensure when chatting with mates over a you comply. beverage, in emergency situations – particularly at night – these metres The new laws are being introduced can be the difference between a in response to incidents where rescue operation or a recovery. commercial vessels have sunk too quickly for the crew to deploy their Manufacturers are also more aware of EPIRB in time, leading to a delay in the importance of GPS-fitted EPIRBs, search and rescue operations and a with many major brands stopping tragic loss of life. production of EPIRB devices without GPS. But are all GPSs the same? Vessels less than 7.5 metres long have the option to carry a GPS-equipped Size is important With new EPIRB laws coming into it will offer rapid signal detection and Small EPIRB effect in January, Ocean Signal has transmission. boxes above developed the world’s most compact its weight in Category 1 (auto-deploy/float-free) In addition, the EPIRB1 Pro terms of price Emergency Position Indicating Rescue incorporates a state-of-the-art and features. Beacon. 66 channel GPS receiver for faster location and improved accuracy and is who are looking to improve on-board The new SafeSea EPIRB1 Pro is 30 backed by a 10-year battery life. safety without bulky, expensive percent smaller than most comparable equipment,” he said. EPIRBs and is designed to release Ian Veitch, Director of All Sat For more visit www.allsat.com.au automatically once submerged in Communications which is the water and float free from a sinking Australian distributor said the new vessel. When floating on the surface it product was available at an attractive will then transmit the boat’s distress price point. message to alert rescue authorities. “Ocean Signal has a heritage of Weighing in at just 422 grams, the launching the world’s smallest SafeSea EPIRB1 Pro operates on the maritime safety products, which three Cospas-Sarsat satellite systems makes this an ideal solution for both including the new MEOSAR, ensuring recreational and commercial vessels Western Australia’s Professional Fishing Industry Magazine | P R O W E S T 19

PROWEST Rock oyster project strives to build revenues and community Hopes are growing for the successful of a Cooperative Research Centre for Fishing Minister Peter Tinley said black lip trial of the black lip rock oyster trial off Developing Northern Australia three- rock oysters are showing huge potential for the Pilbara coast as the trial moves into year project to develop the tropical new aquaculture operations in the Pilbara. its next stage of development - testing rock oyster industry in WA and the the performance of this new species in Northern Territory. harvest in what is tipped to become a regional waters off the Pilbara coast. $30 million industry. The new Black Lip Rock Oysters offer The aquaculture trial, which is being significant opportunity for success It is estimated that for every 1000 jointly managed by the Department as they thrive in the harsh conditions tonnes of oysters produced, 250 jobs of Primary Industries and Regional experienced in the North West marine will be created in regional areas. Development (DPIRD), Murujuga Aboriginal environment with huge tidal movements Corporation and industry development and cyclonic weather patterns. The research will guide the company, Maxima is expected to create development of standard guidelines jobs and revenues for local communities The black lip oysters also produce a on the best rock oyster species to while offering opportunities for flavoursome and meatier product than grow in northern Australia and the best diversification of regional industry, which many other oyster species. way to farm them, to attract potential is dominated by mining. investment to expand the industry. The latest development has seen Chairman of the Murujuga Aboriginal the relocation of oyster spat, which Corporation, Vince Adams, is actively was successfully bred by DPIRD supporting the rock oyster project, researchers at the Hillarys marine which he says will give the community shellfish hatchery, to two trial sites in a sense of achievement and belonging the Pilbara at West Lewis Island and while paying back to their country in Cossack. The sites are managed by a way that is not seen through more project industry partner, Maxima. destructive industries, such as mining. The spat will be grown for between DPIRD is leading the research, as part 12 to 18 months in preparation for Thriving marine life captured on video off the south-west coast In late July, researchers from the surveys will produce seafloor maps New video shows thriving marine life off WA’s University of Western Australia (UWA) and a range of baseline information South west coast. took advantage of easing COVID for the marine park, including the restrictions and headed out into the type, location and extent of habitats commercial fishing in Australian National Park Zone of the South-west alongside the diversity and abundance Marine Parks can be found on the Corner Marine Park. of marine species. Parks Australia website - https:// parksaustralia.gov.au/marine - along Surveys used bathymetry data The aim of this project, funded by with guidance on loading marine park collected with multibeam-sounders the Australian Government’s National boundaries and zones into your plotter. mounted on a local commercial wet Environmental Science Program Marine line fishers’ vessel and baited cameras Biodiversity Hub, UWA and Parks Watch the underwater vision of the were dropped from a local charter and Australia, is to provide the essential surveys of South-west Corner Marine ex-cray fishers’ boat. knowledge necessary to understand Park’s habitats and fishes at the WAFIC our offshore habitats on Australia’s News website - https://www.wafic. The team were rewarded with images continental shelf and assess the org.au/news of dhufish, pink snapper, rays and biodiversity conservation impacts of cuttlefish across deeper reefs covered marine parks around the Capes. in kelp, seagrass and sponge gardens. The South-West Corner Marine Park The data collected from July is being is managed by Parks Australia. More used to plan larger and deeper surveys information and arrangements for this October. Once collected, the 20 P R O W E S T | Western Australia’s Professional Fishing Industry Magazine

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PROWEST Fishing is about people and community Your Say: If you don’t mind, I’d like to relate a For Gavin Jackman, fishing is more than a business, it’s a lifestyle. story. It’s actually a completely true yarn, even though it might sound a situation repeated itself on a couple related surgery, he complained little bit otherwise. I have a place at of occasions over the past 18 months. bitterly when he had to leave his home Bremer Bay and get there whenever Jacko became a great mate – but I’d because his heart and soul is wholly I can. Yes, I’m an avid amateur still never met him! and solely in Albany – where his family fisherman but don’t worry folks, your has always lived, where his fishing income streams will never be at threat. Since then I’ve been rabbited into taking business is, where he loves everything on the WAFIC CEO job, and who do you about his town and community and One day I drove past a sign on the reckon my role model now is? It’s Gavin family and couldn’t possibly envisage side of the road which read “Fresh Jackman from Albany, his wife Tracey ever wanting to be anywhere else. Crabs”, so I decided to come back and kids who learnt mathematics on the later for a feed. Of course, when I fish calculator. They live their fishing So now I’ve written a piece about my returned the sign was gone. This world 24/7 and it’s an indominable life mate Jacko in ProWest and guess happened on irregular occasions and force. The best part is when they set up what – absolutely truly - we’ve only I was determined to get it right the a stall on Sunday mornings at Albany’s ever met once. But we’ve spoken next time. So a few months later the Boatshed markets and fuss over their by phone and SMS and email on a sign popped up and within an hour I customers as they inspect and buy that million occasions. He made me feel was there to get my share. With some morning’s fresh harvest. I passionately like his number one customer well skilful upsizing I soon had a collection respect their lifestyle and as long as I before he ever met me. And folks, if of the best and boldest. can suck air I’m going to be in awe of every fisherman in WA swallowed a Jacko, Tracey and their mob. I’m locked spoonful of Jacko concentrate then The lady who served me had her mother in for the journey, they print out social I’d quickly be out of a job at WAFIC. So and son alongside. As it turns out, her licences (many of legal size) for ever please become a fishing ambassador, other half was a fisherman in Albany other fisherman in the State every day of do your stuff and step in to make me and when she came to visit her folks in every week. irrelevant. The world simply needs Bremer her business-focussed hubby more Jackos. made her bring along a few eskies of And a month ago, when Jacko took fresh crabs to cover the cost of petrol. his young fella to Perth for football- Darryl Hockey So I got to know this lovely person, let’s call her Tracey. She gave me her hubby’s card and said that if I was ever in Albany I should ring him and arrange for a fresh feed of produce. So next time in town, I rang up hubby and he gave me a full twenty minute presentation of just how much he loved fishing, how his family had been there for over 100 years, about how much he cared for the sustainability of his fish and generally showed me what a genuinely great bloke he is. And remember, he was doing this for somebody he had never met and had only wanted to purchase a solitary kilo of crabs. Because he was still out fishing, he rang Tracey and sent her home from her workplace to open up the garage and chuck some crabs in the bag. Then of course she freely threw in more ice than the crabs were worth and rushed back to her job while I headed to Perth. This same 22 P R O W E S T | Western Australia’s Professional Fishing Industry Magazine

WA SEAFOOD EXCHANGE Arrivals, departures, events and updates Darryl Hockey WAFIC in Seafood has stepped the news Industry into the role Australia’s of WAFIC CEO WAFIC has been making headlines interim CEO, with a flurry around the State over recent months Veronica of meetings for all the right reasons. Papacosta over his first has now few weeks and a decision to get out The debate about more accurate been officially appointed to the and meet the fishers where they live, measurement of recreational management role. which is a challenging task in a State overfishing efforts has dominated as large as Western Australia. In his coverage throughout October, with Felicity Horn and Raptis’s Stefan first two weeks, Darryl clocked up more than 50 stories circulating Diacos were recently re-elected on the more than 7000 kilometres driving to across ABC alone. The topic was the Australian Council of Prawn Fisheries meet with fishing families in many lead item on ABC’s Country Hour on (ACPF). The Northern Prawn Fishing coastal communities. 16 October, which included response Industry’s CEO, Annie Jarrett, was re- from Recfishwest’s Leyland Campbell elected as Chair. The ACPF’s role is to Darryl said that this style of community and DPIRD’s Nathan Harrison. represent the industry nationally and engagement will be a feature of his build on the reputation of wild catch role and he is keen to establish new Other hot topics throughout the prawn fisheries. ways to encourage direct two-way month were: conversations with industry members. After 18 months • The value of MSC; at the helm, You can download Darryl’s inaugural former WAFIC podcast from the WAFIC News website • The strong sales of crystal crabs chief executive at: https://www.wafic.org.au/wp- into China; Alex Ogg has content/uploads/2020/10/CEO-Direct- stepped down Channel-message1-12-Oct-2020.mp3 • Recreational overfishing in Shark to explore new Bay as locals wander out yonder; horizons in the Aquaculture private sector. Council WA has • The boom in popularity for In departing, Alex thanked the WAFIC had a change Albany’s tasty sand crabs; team for their support and recognised of Executive the valuable contribution of industry Officers, with • Frustration over the lack of colleagues and stakeholders – Paul Beeson consultation on plans for a particularly those which rallied in their departing and 1000ha aquaculture development response to the COVID-19 impacts. Jude Tyzack zone in Albany waters; and stepping into the role. Jude holds a Big is best BSc in Environmental Science and • The development of a Statewide worked as an environmental consultant harvest strategy that supports We definitely like big things in WA. in the mining industry before moving resource access. WAFIC chief executive Darryl Hockey to London where she held a number of senior-level executive support There were also a number of positive called into the roles in both the not-for-profit and stories generated by WAFIC CEO’s Lobster Shack financial management sectors. Since regional visitation to Geraldton, at Cervantes on returning to WA in 2010, Jude worked Albany, Esperance and Bunbury. a recent drive to in local, state, and federal government Geraldton and roles before joining ACWA in 2018 as met staff who Executive Officer to the Albany Shellfish were sorting and Hatchery Advisory Committee. We wish processing the Jude all the best in this exciting and catch. He found rapidly developing industry sector. Adam Radford checking out WAFIC’s Industry Consultation Unit will this little guy to be shorthanded for a while as Basia see if it’s big enough to keep. Lamb takes maternity leave. Best wishes on your new arrival. Western Australia’s Professional Fishing Industry Magazine | P R O W E S T 23

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