Geraldton public briefing on sustainability of ‘at risk’ fish
Date: Thursday, 18 October 2007
Fisheries managers and researchers will hold a public briefing in Geraldton next Thursday to outline important research on ‘at risk’ Western Australian fish stocks and the need for new options to manage recreational catches sustainably.

New research has revealed that key WA demersal scalefish, like the long-lived species such as dhufish, pink snapper, and baldchin groper are being over-fished in the West Coast Bioregion that extends from just north of Kalbarri to Black Point east of Augusta.

The number of older fish in dhufish and snapper populations has fallen and recruitment of juveniles has been shown to be highly sporadic. This, coupled with the slow growing, long-lived nature of the species makes them highly vulnerable to over fishing.

A new management plan is being implemented for the commercial wetline fishery and Fisheries Minister Jon Ford has just released a discussion paper to promote a greater understanding of the challenges in managing recreational fishing.

Minister Ford also recently announced a range of interim measures to help remove the risk of losing our key indicator species, while new management arrangements are developed.

Department of Fisheries South West Bioregion Manager Ian Curnow said, in developing a new approach, we would have to consider various management options and it was hoped recreational fishers would take the opportunity to contribute to the process.

“The public briefings so far have shown that fishers find it valuable to hear about the science behind the concerns to give them a better understanding of the issues and we hope it leads to new ideas in managing these key species into the future,” Mr Curnow said.

Submissions can be made through the post or online at www.fish.wa.gov.au.

Fisheries Management Paper No.225 - Managing the recreational catch of demersal scalefish on the West Coast – and the Fisheries Research Report No.163 on the stock status of key species - are available from the Department’s website.

Mr Curnow said no decisions would be made by the Minister on long-term strategies to ensure sustainability of the ‘at risk’ species, until Mr Ford had reviewed community comment on this discussion paper and a further paper to be issued early next year that will summarise the submissions and feedback from fishers and the general public.

“The public briefing in Geraldton will be held next Thursday (25 October) at the African Reef Resort Hotel in Tarcoola Beach,” he said. “The meeting will begin at 5pm.”

Minister allows fish traps to reduce feral redclaw population
Date: Friday, 19 October 2007
Fisheries Minister Jon Ford has granted an exemption to Western Australia’s fish traps ban to help recreational fishers effectively remove redclaw from Lake Kununurra.

Redclaw (Cherax quadricarinatus) is a freshwater crayfish from the Northern Territory and tropical Queensland, where stocking of the species outside its natural range is not permitted.

It is also illegal in WA to introduce redclaw into other waters, so fishers must not transfer live redclaw to other public waters or use it as bait in other waters.

The crustacean is not native to WA waters and the wild population of redclaw, which is also a popular aquaculture species, has been increasing in the East Kimberley, prompting action by the local community to counter the rising numbers.

Mr Ford said the East Kimberley Regional Recreational Fishing Advisory Committee (RRFAC) had undertaken trials to help identify how fishers could catch redclaw but limit the impact on protected native species.

“I congratulate the East Kimberley RRFAC for undertaking this important initiative, which will help reduce the redclaw population and expand recreational fishing opportunities in the East Kimberley,” he said.

“Under the special exemption, recreational fishers will be able to use a specifically modified ‘opera house’ style fish trap to take redclaw from the waters of Lake Kununurra and the Ord River, upstream of the diversion dam and downstream of Lake Argyle.

“These special traps are commercially available in Kununurra, however the use of any fish traps in all other WA public waters will remain illegal.”

The Minister said it was important that recreational fishers in the East Kimberley read the Department of Fisheries flyer which was available from local bait and tackle shops in Kununurra or online at http://www.fish.wa.gov.au

“Signs on display will also provide basic information about redclaw fishing,” Mr Ford said.

“While there are no bag or size limits on redclaw, fishers will be limited to a maximum of 10 traps per person or per boat and each trap must be clearly labelled with the owner’s name and address.

“All fish, other than Queensland redclaw, which are caught in one of these traps must be returned to the water immediately after a fisher discovers they are in a trap.”

Media contact: Regina Titelius - 9213 7200

Have your say in regional marine planning and no fishing areas for WA's south coast

Department of Environment and Conservation  26/09/07  Media Statement

A series of workshops will be held over the coming months to enable community input into planning for one of WA's natural treasures.

The South Coast Regional Marine Planning Advisory Group has been formed to advise the WA Government on the development of a strategic plan for south coast marine waters. Chairman of the advisory group, Roger Lewis of Esperance, said the marine environment of Western Australia's south coast provides a range of social, environmental, economic and cultural values.

"The South Coast Regional Marine Planning process aims to ensure the many benefits of this unique resource are available for all time," Mr Lewis said.

"The community workshops will provide an opportunity for interested groups and the general public to find out more about the planning process and to provide input about the things that are most important to them."

Mr Lewis said the members of the advisory group were drawn from a diverse range of marine users.

"Their interests cover commercial and recreational fishing, aquaculture, marine conservation, tourism, the maritime industry, diving, boating, Aboriginal interests and petroleum exploration," Mr Lewis said.

"The group will provide advice on a strategic plan for the waters of the south coast from Cape Leeuwin to the South Australian border.

"We need to get this right, so we are able to protect the incredible diversity of our Southern Ocean, while still reaping recreational and economic benefits from the sea.

"The strategic plan is a first for WA State waters and the advisory group with a multi-agency team of Government representatives should be ready to present a draft copy around June 2008."

Dates for the community workshops are:

2007
Esperance            Wednesday 10 October         Esperance Bay Yacht Club
Kalgoorlie              Thursday 11 October             Kalgoorlie Town Hall Banquet Room
Manjimup               Monday 22 October              The Gallery (Community Centre)
Kojonup                 Tuesday 23 October              Shire Memorial/Lesser Hall
Albany                   Wednesday 24 October         Princess Royal Sailing Club
Perth                     TBA                (venue TBA)

2008
Hopetoun          Wednesday 16 January              (venue TBA)
Bremer Bay       Thursday 17 January                  (venue TBA)
Denmark           Wednesday 23 January              (venue TBA)
Augusta            Thursday 24 January                   (venue TBA)

Light refreshments will be provided.

For further information or to register your interest in attending a workshop, please contact Peter van Schoubroeck on 9842 4500.
=============

I have included and no fishing areas just in case people didn't realise that marine planning/Marine Parks/Marine Protected Areas (nearly) always include no take, no fishing areas.

The conservationists want 50% of the entire coastline as no fishing including estuaries like Oyster Harbour and Wilson Inlet. That's their real target, but they will fight very hard for 30% closed as an absolute minimum. How do you think 34% of the Ningaloo Marine Park ended up as closed no fishing areas?????

You may be told that the South Coast Marine Planning process has learnt from the mistakes of the past, particularly Ningaloo, and you will be told it will be different.

Let's accept that is the intention, but recreational anglers need to get involved and keep a close watch to make sure it is done differently and is done properly.

Check out http://www.recfishwest.org.au/SouthCoastMPAPresentationSept07.html to show you that Recfishwest is ALREADY working and looking after your interests.

It's early days yet, BUT what do you think will happen if there is no Recfishwest???? and that's a real possibility if recreational anglers are not prepared to put a measly $20 in.

Recfishwest and a few other dedicated recreational fishermen worked very hard and kept the closed areas in the coming Capes Marine Park to just 11% and in Walpole/Nornalup to 0% which is an outstanding achievement considering the possibilities.

Who will do that for the South Coast if there's no Recfishwest???? Will all those people who couldn't be bothered supporting Recfishwest suddenly get organised??? Not likely.

Who's prepared to take the risk???

Some conservationists see the Walpole result as a sell out and will be working very hard to get other areas closed in "compensation".

And they'd love to see Recfishwest disbanded because then recreational anglers would be just disorganised rabble who could be easily ignored.....

Recreational anglers want sustainable fishing and good fishing experiences and a FAIR GO!.

Informed Recreational anglers aren't opposed to Marine Parks.

Informed Recreational anglers aren't opposed to sanctuary/no fishing zones in the right places for the right reasons.

Informed Recreational anglers want to protect nursery areas, spawning fish stocks and spawning fish aggregations, but these don't need total closures all year long. Example:- Cockburn Sound Pink Snapper seasonal spawning closures championed by concerned recreational anglers.

Recreational anglers want to protect the environment, but locking up large areas is not the only way to protect the environment.

Informed conservationists would talk about the outcomes they want, and not just keep promoting one of the methods which might achieve them and ignore all the other methods........

Just telling it like it is.

Watch this space.....

TerryF
=====
Beavering away in the background......

Recfishwest - looking after YOUR recreational fishing future. http://www.recfishwest.org.au/

You need Recfishwest to look after your recreational fishing interests. Who else has the time, the knowledge, the professional approach, the realistic alternatives, the willingness and the contacts?

Recfishwest needs YOUR support. We would really like you to become a member, get involved and help us.

For $20, you can join by post, by phone 9246 3366, by email , in person, or fill in a website form. See http://www.recfishwest.org.au/MembershipDet.htm

Tell us what you think and ask us to explain anything you don't agree with - you may give new details which will change Recfishwest's decision.

You are the ones who benefit when Recfishwest succeeds, or you will lose out when Recfishwest is ignored.

Win a day's bream fishing + accommodation at Walpole.

People who sign up as new Recfishwest members at the Mandurah Boat Show, 11 to 14 October 2007 will be entered in a draw to win a day's bream fishing at Walpole with well known local guide and bream expert Mark Halse, and a night's accommodation in his chalet.

Many thanks to RFW member Mark Halse for this very generous offer. Check his websites at http://www.madfishing.com/ and http://www.walpolewildernessresort.com.au/

Look for the red Recfishwest trailer on Stand 114 near the Aquatank.

Call in, sign up, get the latest info and meet some of the Recfishwest people.



And yes new members signing up on the day will get their free Halco Laser Pro 45 in 'Recfishwest' special colour ONLY available to Recfishwest members!  While stocks last!



And they will also be in the draw for each of the following items on 17 December 2007 - a great Christmas present for some lucky members.

• Engel 40 litre Fridge/freezer MT45 + Bag + Slide lock, valued at $1,445

• 2 return tickets to Exmouth flying Skywest Airlines

• 2 x Engel camping lanterns valued at $55 each

• Quality rod and reel

• Halco lure pack

• and more

Got-One Tackle Woodvale offers a 5% discount to all Recfishwest members off absolutely everything in the store including bait.

TerryF
=====
Beavering away in the background......

Recfishwest - looking after YOUR recreational fishing future. http://www.recfishwest.org.au/

You need Recfishwest to look after your recreational fishing interests. Who else has the time, the knowledge, the professional approach, the realistic alternatives, the willingness and the contacts?

Recfishwest needs YOUR support. We would really like you to become a member, get involved and help us.

For $20, you can join by post, by phone 9246 3366, by email , in person, or fill in a website form. See http://www.recfishwest.org.au/MembershipDet.htm

Tell us what you think and ask us to explain anything you don't agree with - you may give new details which will change Recfishwest's decision.

You are the ones who benefit when Recfishwest succeeds, or you will lose out when Recfishwest is ignored.

Edit added http://www.walpolewildernessresort.com.au/

Big fine for unlawful sale of fish

Date: Thursday, 4 October 2007 http://www.fish.wa.gov.au/docs/media/index.php?0000&mr=488

A Swanbourne man was fined $4893 yesterday, for unlawfully selling fish in two western suburbs and for dumping offal in the waters off Cottesloe.

55-year-old Michael Stuart Lane pleaded guilty to a total of five charges, arising from a Department of Fisheries surveillance operation in August this year.

A Perth court was told the covert operation focussed on Lane's involvement in the sale of black market finfish to various purchases by way of door-to-door distribution throughout the western suburbs of Perth.

Department of Fisheries Central Support Manager Ian Jones said Lane had caught sand whiting in the waters off the metropolitan coast and later filleted and packaged the fish before selling them to various householders in Cottesloe and Mosman Park.

"The offences took place on four days in early August and that over that time Lane was paid $255 for the 5.6 kilograms of filleted fish that he had offered for sale – without being the holder of a current commercial fishing licence," Mr Jones said.

"In addition, he was caught on camera (on 3 August 2007) dumping offal from the fish he had filleted into the waters at Cottesloe Reef, in a Fish Habitat Protection Area."

As well as imposing a global fine of $4,000 for the charges, the Magistrate ruled that Lane would pay court costs of $669.20 plus an additional mandatory penalty of $224 for the sand whiting fillets he had sold and he also ordered the forfeiture of the $255 in sale proceeds.

Mr Jones said the Department had asked for the forfeiture of the proceeds of the sale, because Lane had previous Fisheries convictions and to drive a powerful message home to the offender and the community that this type of conduct was totally unacceptable.

"The unlawful selling of fish shows a total disregard for law abiding recreational fishers who fish for the future and catch only enough fish for themselves and their family and it also impacts on commercial operators who run legitimate businesses," he said.

"Dumping of offal is also a significant matter, because, not only did it pollute a pristine area within a Fish Habitat Protection Area, it also has the potential to attract marine predators such as sharks and increase the danger to water users in the vicinity.

"We are pleased the fines and penalties imposed reflect the seriousness of the offences and we urge members of the public to report illegal fish sales by calling the Department's Fishwatch number 1800 815 507. The service operates 24 hours a day 7 days a week."

MEDIA RELEASE

Western Australians were invited to attend public briefings to have their say about how they wanted offshore recreational fishing to be managed in the future, Fisheries Minister Jon Ford said today.

A series of public briefings would be held this month, with the first briefing to be held in Hillarys on October 9, followed by briefings in Fremantle, Mandurah, Bunbury, Busselton and Geraldton.

At the briefings, the public would have the chance to discuss future options for sustainably managing recreational catches of demersal scalefish such as pink snapper, dhufish and baldchin groper. These species were generally found in deeper offshore waters and targeted by boat fishers.

The Department of Fisheries would also outline the findings of new research which showed that key demersal scalefish were being over-fished in the West Coast Bioregion, between Zuytdorp Cliffs, north of Kalbarri, and Black Point, near Augusta.

Mr Ford said this research showed that stocks of key demersal scalefish were at risk of collapsing in four to five years if action was not taken.

“With the increase in WA’s population, particularly along the coastline, we now have more people in more boats out in our waters and many of these boats are well-equipped with fish-finding technology,” Mr Ford said.

“While bag limits and other methods of controlling recreational fishing have worked in the past, we now have to find a new set of tools that are more effective in managing recreational fishing, and I want Western Australians to be a part of determining these new tools.”

In the first step towards developing a new and more effective management strategy for recreational fishing by mid next year, Mr Ford released a discussion paper last month.

Mr Ford said this month’s public briefings would provide more information to people to help them submit their responses to the discussion paper.

“It’s vital for Western Australians to get involved in shaping the future of recreational fishing,” Mr Ford said.

“But before I even get close to releasing final recommendations on the long-term management strategy early next year, I want to find out from the public what their ideas are to ensure we have fish for the future.”

While these meetings were open to all interested people, the Department of Fisheries would hold a series of separate meetings with commercial wetline fishers to discuss new fishing arrangements.

Submissions to the discussion paper can be made through the post or online at http://www.fish.wa.gov.au

Fisheries Management Paper No.225 - ‘Managing the recreational catch of demersal scalefish on the West Coast’ - and the ‘Fisheries Research Report No.163’ on the stock status of key species - are available from the Department’s website.

The schedule of briefings is:
Hillarys – October 9 – Naturaliste Marine Discovery Centre – 5pm-7pm
Fremantle – October 10 – Fremantle Sailing Club – 5pm-7pm
Mandurah – October 11 – Royal Australian Airforce Association Club – 5pm-7pm
Bunbury – October 16 – All Seasons Sanctuary Golf Resort – 5pm-7pm
Busselton – October 17 – Broadwater Beach Resort – 5pm-7pm
Geraldton – October 25 – African Reef Resort Hotel – 5pm-7pm

MEDIA RELEAESE

The annual closure to pink snapper fishing in both Cockburn and Warnbro Sounds begins on Monday and will now last for a full four months.

From 1 October to 31 January each year it will be illegal to be in possession of pink snapper while fishing in the waters of Cockburn and Warnbro Sounds, during the closed season, however, pink snapper taken outside of the Sounds may be transported through and landed within Cockburn or Warnbro Sound during the closed season.

Department of Fisheries Principal Management Officer, Nathan Harrison said the closure that applied to commercial and recreational fishers (including catch and release), was necessary to protect stocks during spawning, which had been quite variable in the past.

“For example, the variability of the spawning in the Sounds led to an extension of the closure last year when it became obvious pink snapper were still spawning and were in a highly vulnerable situation,” he said.

“Cockburn Sound is the most important known spawning ground and nursery habitat for pink snapper in the West Coast Bioregion and, according to our researchers, juveniles remain there for up to 18 months.”

Mr Harrison said a recently completed stock assessment of pink snapper on the West Coast indicated this highly valued species was being overfished.

“Last week, Fisheries Minister Jon Ford announced the longer closure to help carefully manage the sustainability of this ‘at risk’ demersal scalefish species,” Mr Harrison said.

“Pink snapper is a slow-growing and long-lived species. Its slow growth rate makes the species less able to recover from overfishing and rapid environmental change.

“They can live to 30 years or more and this long life increases each pink snapper’s chance of reproducing successfully, so it is vital to keep a balance of older and younger fish in the West Coast population for their long term sustainability.

“In the past, pink snapper have been caught weighing almost 20 kilograms and measuring over a metre long. These days it is rare to see pink snapper weighing more than 10 kilograms.”

See the attached map for the closure area and for more information (including a fact sheet on pink snapper) see the Department of Fisheries’ website at www.fish.wa.gov.au

West Coast Fishing Rules changes.

See http://www.fish.wa.gov.au/docs/pub/WestLimits/index.php?0102 for September updates to the West Coast Fishing Rules.

The changes are marked - but the PDF document security doesn't allow copying (why the heck not???) so I'm not going to type them out to list them here. You can download it and see for yourself.

These DON'T include all the interim changes for West Coast recreational fishing as announced by the Minister in his foreword to http://www.fish.wa.gov.au/docs/mp/mp225/index.php?0602

Why weren't these all included? Suspect it is because they haven't been gazetted yet.

That means there will probably have to be another new version of the West Coast Rules before November.

What was the rush to get this version out? I don't know. Too busy just now to chase that up, but have asked the questions....

TerryF
=====
Beavering away in the background......

Commercial and Rec Fishing changes


MEDIA RELEASE

WA Government launches fishing package to save iconic fish for the future.

Western Australia’s coastline between Lancelin and south of Mandurah will become an exclusive zone for recreational line fishing under a State Government move to avoid the overfishing of iconic fish such as dhufish and pink snapper.

In making the announcement today, Fisheries Minister Jon Ford said the Metropolitan Fishing Zone would exclude all commercial line and net fishing of demersal finfish.

Mr Ford said it was a significant measure that demonstrated the WA Government’s commitment to ensuring sustainability of fish stocks in a metropolitan coastal region.

"Creating this Metropolitan Fishing Zone is one of the world’s most innovative moves to make sure our grandkids can still catch these iconic fish in years to come," he said.

While the new Zone will exclude commercial take of demersal finfish (such as sharks and demersal scalefish), it will still allow various managed fisheries such as lobster and abalone. Demersal scalefish include iconic species such as dhufish, baldchin groper, pink snapper, red snapper and breaksea cod.

The Minister said the Zone was part of a new ‘fishing management package’ that would impact on the whole State, particularly the West Coast Bioregion, which stretched from Kalbarri to Black Point near Augusta.

"This package will secure fish for the future in WA by preserving key demersal fish, which new research shows are at risk of collapsing," Mr Ford said.

"New research which I’m releasing today shows that unless we take action now, stocks of key demersal fish will collapse within four to five years and these fish will all but disappear from our waters.

"Two of the ‘at risk’ species, dhufish and baldchin groper, are not found anywhere else in the world and WA has a responsibility to preserve them.

"I am committed to ensuring these iconic species don’t become a fond and distant memory to Western Australians.

"This would be a shocking legacy for Western Australians to bear, so we must take action now to guarantee future generations are able to fish for these species."


Features of the fishing management package announced today for the WA coast are:

• Metropolitan Fishing Zone stretching from Lancelin 31?S to south of Mandurah 33?S. Excludes all commercial fishing for demersal finfish and is effective as of November. State Government funding of more than $5million has been allocated to buy out all commercial line and demersal gill-net fishers in the Metropolitan Zone;

• New research that shows key demersal fish are under such serious pressure that stocks of these fish along the West Coast Bioregion could collapse within four to five years if action is not taken now;

• More than $5.3million research funding over four years to undertake detailed monitoring of demersal fish catches by recreational and commercial fishers. This research will evaluate the effectiveness of management practices to rebuild these fish stocks;

• Release of a discussion paper calling for the WA community to comment on the future management of recreational fishing of demersal fish. This discussion paper is the start of a process to determine a more effective long-term strategy before July next year; and

• Interim fishing measures to protect ’at risk’ demersal fish species, phased in from November until the new recreational fishing strategy is determined. These interim measures will be:

o extending the closure to fishing for pink snapper in the Cockburn area;

o extending the existing possession limit to place of residence throughout WA;

o total protection for baldchin groper in the Abrolhos Islands; and

o a limit of four Category 1 (high risk) fish per person on aquatic charter boats operating along the WA coast.

"Growing concerns about the sustainability of key demersal fish is based on evidence of escalating fishing effort, particularly by the burgeoning recreational fishing sector," Mr Ford said.

"The number of registered recreational boats has grown rapidly as the State’s population continues to climb. Recreational fishers have also become more effective as they have quickly adopted new technology.

"In particular, global positioning systems (GPS) and high quality sounders have now become standard items on fishing boats and this has made recreational fishing much more precise and targeted."

The Minister said the commercial fishing sector had undergone considerable transformation in the past two years and the exclusion of commercial line and net fishers from the Metropolitan Fishing Zone recognised the significance of increasing fishing pressure in the metropolitan region.

"This action will provide immediate relief to fish stocks, but further action is necessary and the burden of responsibility cannot and should not be carried alone by commercial fishers," he said.

"Recreational fishers in WA are to be commended for the way they have supported the existing management system based on bag and size limits, but it is clear that the problems we now face require new and innovative solutions.

"The research and discussion papers show we really need to focus on cutting back the fishing mortality of our key demersal scalefish species."

Mr Ford said interim measures were aimed at reducing the fishing pressure on key species until the consultation period was completed by July next year, when a more effective long-term management strategy would be introduced.

The discussion paper, which marked the beginning of the consultation process, is called ’Fisheries Management Paper No. 225 - Managing the recreational catch of demersal scalefish on the West Coast’. This paper, and the Fisheries Research Report No. 163 on the stock status of key species, is available from the Department of Fisheries website at

http://www.fish.wa.gov.au/docs/mp/mp225/fmp225.pdf  Managing The Recreational Catch Of Demersal Scalefish On The West Coast - Future Management Scenarios for Community Consideration

http://www.fish.wa.gov.au/docs/frr/frr163/frr163.pdf Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion.

TerryF
=====
Beavering away in the background......

Recfishwest - looking after YOUR recreational fishing future. http://www.recfishwest.org.au/

You need Recfishwest to look after your recreational fishing interests. Who else has the time, the knowledge, the professional approach, the realistic alternatives, the willingness and the contacts?

Recfishwest needs YOUR support. We would really like you to become a member, get involved and help us.

For $20, you can join by post, by phone 9246 3366, by email , in person, or fill in a website form. See http://www.recfishwest.org.au/MembershipDet.htm

Tell us what you think and ask us to explain anything you don't agree with - you may give new details which will change Recfishwest's decision.

You are the ones who benefit when Recfishwest succeeds, or you will lose out when Recfishwest is ignored.

Recfishwest calls for new members  http://www.recfishwest.org.au/MediaStateRFWcallsForNewMembers.htm

Recfishwest today called on recreational fishers in Western Australia to get behind their peak body and join up now.

Recfishwest is now celebrating its 10th birthday in September, and is the peak body representing recreational fishers in Western Australia.

"Recreational fishing is one of the most significant activities in this state with about 1/3 of the adult population fishing at least once a year. It is worth around $700 million a year to our economy and many regional centres rely on recreational fishing as the basis of their tourism industries." said Mr Frank Prokop, Executive Director of Recfishwest.

Recfishwest is recognised as one of the most successful peak bodies for recreational fishing in the world, having been responsible for pro-active management measures ranging from Wilson Inlet snapper to barramundi management in the Ord River.

"Recfishwest has a long and successful record of initiating change and working with the Department of Fisheries and successive Ministers on a wide range of issues." Mr Prokop said. "We have done this with a small membership base and dedicated volunteer board members to date."

"With the implementation of the wetline review and the need for more timely management of the recreational sector, Recfishwest has been set a challenge by government to greatly increase its membership so that its ability to speak for recreational fishers is reinforced."

Minister for Fisheries, Jon Ford acknowledged the input of Recfishwest but added, "The government has recently set Recfishwest the challenge to dramatically increase their membership in order to secure future funding for the organisation. It is important that the recreational sector makes a direct commitment to the peak body."

Recfishwest is taking up the Minister's challenge and is calling on all recreational fishers to join their peak body. Mr Prokop said that Recfishwest had done something constructive for every single recreational fisher in recent times. Recfishwest needs at least 1000 members by early next year.

"It is time for the recreational fishers of this state to decide if they want a group to act in their best interests - our future is in their hands." Mr Prokop said. "It is time for recreational fishers to make a small investment in their fishing future, otherwise the peak body might not exist."

"Membership costs only $20 for a calendar year. We have negotiated with Halco lures to send new members a special limited edition colour Laser Pro 45 lure (while stocks last) which makes a membership even better value." Mr Prokop concluded.

ENDS

Media Contact
Frank Prokop, Executive Director - Recfishwest 9246 3366 or 0419 949 118.

TerryF
=====
Beavering away in the background......

Recfishwest - looking after YOUR recreational fishing future. http://www.recfishwest.org.au/

You need Recfishwest to look after your recreational fishing interests. Who else has the time, the knowledge, the professional approach, the realistic alternatives, the willingness and the contacts?

Recfishwest needs YOUR support. We would really like you to become a member, get involved and help us.

For $20, you can join by post, by phone 9264 3366, by email , in person, or fill in a website form. See http://www.recfishwest.org.au/MembershipDet.htm

Tell us what you think and ask us to explain anything you don't agree with - you may give new details which will change Recfishwest's decision.

You are the ones who benefit when Recfishwest succeeds, or you will lose out when Recfishwest is ignored.

Recfishwest Annual General Meeting and Election of Board Members 2007.

Notice of the 2007 Recfishwest Annual General Meeting and Election of Board Members has been sent to RFW members and is now on the website at http://www.recfishwest.org.au/AGMNotice2007.htm

The "formal" part of the AGM doesn't usually take very long, and the meeting then lets Recfishwest members discuss anything about RFW and/or recreational fisheries management, and then share some refreshments afterwards.

The Recfishwest AGM will be held on Friday 19 October 2007 in the "Bridge Room" at the Fremantle Sailing Club, "Success Harbour" on Marine Terrace, Fremantle commencing at 7.30pm.

Public Board Member Elections. There will be vacancies for three Public Board Members for two-year terms. These vacancies follow the completion of term of Dr Howard Gill, Keith Tocas and Craig Bibra.

Nominations to fill these vacant positions are open to Public Members of Recfishwest, and will close on 21 September, unless there are insufficient nominations.

A further casual vacancy for one year may arise if the Chairman of Recfishwest is elected from amongst the Public Board Members. The RFW Chairman is elected at the first Board meeting following the AGM.

I would encourage all Recfishwest members to consider nominating someone or getting themselves nominated for the Board.

Nomination forms are in http://www.recfishwest.org.au/AGMNotice2007.htm

As an existing Board Member of Recfishwest, I can assure you that you will get any support you need and you will find a Board position very worthwhile.

ONLY financial members of Recfishwest will be entitled to vote for Board members at the AGM.

The Recfishwest Annual Report for 2006/2007 will be presented at this meeting.

Please contact me if you have any questions.

TerryF
=====
Beavering away in the background......

Recfishwest - looking after YOUR recreational fishing future. http://www.recfishwest.org.au/

You need Recfishwest to look after your recreational fishing interests. Who else has the time, the knowledge, the professional approach, the realistic alternatives, the willingness and the contacts?

Recfishwest needs YOUR support. We would really like you to become a member, get involved and help us.

You can join by post, by phone, by email, in person, or fill in a website form. See http://www.recfishwest.org.au/MembershipDet.htm

Tell us what you think and ask us to explain anything you don't agree with - you may give new details which will change Recfishwest's decision.

You are the ones who benefit when Recfishwest succeeds, or you will lose out when Recfishwest is ignored.

Offer for new and renewing members of Recfishwest from 5 September:-

A free Halco Laser Pro 45 in 'Recfishwest' special colour!  While stocks last!



You can join by post, by phone, by email, in person, or fill in a website form from http://www.recfishwest.org.au/MembershipDet.htm

$20 is all it takes to become a member, and you get a valuable lure in return, plus the other RFW benefits.

Existing RFW members can pick up a lure from the RFW office in Watermans, but they will not ready for about 4 weeks.

TerryF
=====
Beavering away in the background......

Recfishwest - looking after YOUR recreational fishing future. http://www.recfishwest.org.au/

You need Recfishwest to look after your recreational fishing interests. Who else has the time, the knowledge, the professional approach, the realistic alternatives, the willingness and the contacts?

Recfishwest needs YOUR support. We would really like you to become a member, get involved and help us.

Tell us what you think and ask us to explain anything you don't agree with - you may give new details which will change Recfishwest's decision.

One of Recfishwest's objectives is to promote recreational fishing as a healthy activity which all the family can enjoy.

We are often approached by mums, dads and people who are taking up fishing for the first time who are not sure which gear or tackle is most suitable to their needs, how to tie knots or how to maintain their rod and reel.

A Talking Tackle workshop will be held at the Recfishwest offices in Waterman on Wednesday evening at 7pm Wednesday 5 September 2007.

Contact Recfishwest: phone: 9246 3366 Email:

Other topics covered are;
· Essential items for your tackle box
· Fishing from rocks and safety - what to look out for
· Basic fish biology
· Being SunSmart - recreational fishers have some of the highest incidences of skin cancer
· The importance of fishing as a family activity

Recfishwest Executive Director, Frank Prokop and "Hotbite" columnist, Kane Moyle will be on hand to answer all your questions. Frank has written 13 books on fishing and articles published right around Australia and the United States.

Entry fee is $22.00 per person and will entitle you to a year's membership with Recfishwest and be kept informed about issues affecting recreational fishing. Each participant will also receive a small tackle pack, sunscreen and be in the draw to win other prizes.

Register your interest in a Recfishwest Talking Tackle Workshop and you will learn all of the above and more.

We can also cater a workshop for your workplace as a fun, professional development exercise.

http://www.recfishwest.org.au/TalkingTackleWorkshop.htm

TerryF
=====

Beavering away in the background......

Recfishwest - looking after YOUR recreational fishing future. http://www.recfishwest.org.au/

You need Recfishwest to look after your recreational fishing interests. Who else has the time, the knowledge, the professional approach, the realistic alternatives, the willingness and the contacts?

Recfishwest needs YOUR support. We would really like you to become a member, get involved and help us.

You can join by post, by phone, by email, in person, or fill in a website form. See http://www.recfishwest.org.au/MembershipDet.htm

Tell us what you think and ask us to explain anything you don't agree with - you may give new details which will change Recfishwest's decision.

You are the ones who benefit when Recfishwest succeeds, or you will lose out when Recfishwest is ignored.

Peel Harvey crab closure period begins tomorrow

The Peel Harvey Inlet will be closed to recreational and commercial crab fishing for two months from tomorrow (Saturday, 1 September).

Department of Fisheries Principal Management Officer, Nathan Harrison said the closure was part of a range of new management measures designed to provide additional protection for blue swimmer stocks in the popular Mandurah waterway.

“In recent years, recreational crab fishers have been reporting smaller catches and it is important that a precautionary approach is adopted to protect this highly valuable natural resource,” Mr Harrison said.

“To help develop a better understanding of the Peel Harvey blue swimmer crab population, a $600,000 research program has been established to gather vital data over the next 12 months.

“We will also be evaluating the effect of the September/October closure to establish what sort of management measures will be needed for the long term sustainability of this and other crab fisheries in Western Australia.

“Our researchers will be continuing their work over the closure period.”
Mr Harrison said the Department was conducting an awareness campaign, with signs, posters, flyers and advertising to remind fishers of the closure.

“Our Fisheries and Marine officers will also be running regular patrols of the Peel Harvey estuary to make sure fishers are complying with the all fishing rules,” he said.

“Recreational fishers should also note that, to reduce pressure on blue swimmer stocks, a new daily bag limit of 10 crabs and boat limit of 20 crabs will apply as of 1 November across the West Coast Region (where a crab fishery is not subject to a specific closure).

“The West Coast region - which extends from Black Point, east of Augusta, to the Zuytdorp Cliffs, north of Kalbarri - is our State’s most popular fishing area, attracting almost 80 per cent of WA’s recreational fishers, so there has been growing pressure on crab stocks.”

More details are available from the Department of Fisheries website www.fish.wa.gov.au

Five weekly issues of "Casting Around the Internet with Recfishwest" have been produced and emailed to members of Recfishwest, with topics as below. Issue 6 will be sent out on 23 July.

The most recent up to date issues are reserved for members of Recfishwest.

Older versions will be placed on the Recfishwest website, but will be delayed by some weeks.

Issue 1, 13 June is now on the RFW website. See http://www.recfishwest.org.au/CastingAround.htm

Topics in Issue 1, 13 June 2007

Trust works to avert fishing tragedies.

Device saves boy's life four years on.

NZ Judge Finds "Wellbeing of the People" is the Priority in Landmark Fishing Ruling.

Black Bream Restocking.

Anglers face much tougher limits on WA's most popular fish.

Anglers recapture Samson fish they tagged.

Are you putting Australia's future on the line?

State Coastal Conference, Denmark

Topics in Issue 2, 25 June 2007

Minister explains radical recreational fishing changes.

Leeuwin Current Symposium.

Bid to save fish could see coast closed to anglers.

Report on future of Collie-Wellington Basin released.

Countries to discuss managing aquatic genetic resources

Western Australian Fishing Industry Council bulletin - commercial wetline fishing changes.

Study identifies Perth's future boating facilities

Call to Pilbara fishers to Fish for the Future

Issue 3, 2 July 2007

Perth beaches hit by poison flowing from drains

Order:- Prohibition on Fishing Rottnest Island

Recreational-only fishing areas

Recreational fish restocking road map.

Luxury fish prices tipped to rise as catches cut.

Drag nets to be prohibited in the Peel Harvey Estuary

Ningaloo reef life topped up by plankton-rich ocean waves

Stab-resistant vests make Fishery officers safer .

Issue 4, 9 July 2007

Cobbler protected in Swan/Canning Rivers, Black bream protected in Heirisson Island lakes.

Recreational fishers take the right steps to ensure sustainability

New marine sanctuaries enacted on Rottnest Island.

New focus on WA South coast as first regional marine planning initiative.

Imported seafood products have repeatedly contained potentially harmful residues.

Seafood Import Protocols 'Out of Step'

Out of season marron fishing case attracts $12,317 in fines.

School's in for future fishing leaders.

Issue 5, 16 July 2007

Harbour plans to dredge and fill in more of Cockburn Sound.

Native fish threatens commercial catch

Released fish soon back in the swim

Fears Wilson Inlet snapper size limits to put commercial pressure on other species.

Recfishwest praises increase to minimum legal size limit for Wilson Inlet Pink Snapper.

Fish stocks surge are not only indicator of Wilson Inlet health.

Salmon farmers warned on antibiotic use.

Swan River Trust policy:- Rivers' jetty use for public.

Underwater robots scanning biodiversity of Ningaloo

Issue 6, 23 July 2007 You'll get it by email on 23 July if you are a RFW member.

We have made it very easy for you to become a full voting member of Recfishwest and receive these by email.

You can join by post, by phone, by email, in person, or fill in a website form. See http://www.recfishwest.org.au/MembershipDet.htm

TerryF
=====
Beavering away in the background......

Recfishwest - looking after YOUR recreational fishing future. http://www.recfishwest.org.au/

You need Recfishwest to look after your recreational fishing interests. Who else has the time, the knowledge, the professional approach, the realistic alternatives, the willingness and the contacts?

Recfishwest needs YOUR support. We would really like you to become a member http://www.recfishwest.org.au/MembershipDet.htm , get involved and help us.

Tell us what you think and ask us to explain anything you don't agree with.

You are the ones who benefit when Recfishwest succeeds, or you will lose out when Recfishwest is ignored.

Court told lobsters in holiday haul were all undersize

A 31 year old man’s holiday fishing trip to Greenhead led to a large fine yesterday, after he
entered a plea of guilty to taking 15 undersize rock lobsters.

In the Moora Court, Lee David Richmond of High Wycombe, who was not required to appear in
person, was ordered to pay almost $2,800 in fines, penalties and court costs.

The Magistrate was told that Fisheries and Marines Officers were conducting checks of
recreational fishers at the Greenhead Boat Ramp on Friday 29 December 2006, when
Richmond’s catch was inspected at around 2pm.

All the western rock lobster the offender had in his possession were measured and found to be
less than the legal minimum carapace length of 77mm. The rock lobsters ranged in size from
58.70mm to 75.80mm.

The offender told Fisheries and Marine Officers, in a record of interview, that he believed the
western rock lobster “looked size”, but also admitted that he didn’t know the size limit.
Richmond was fined $1500 for breaching Section 46(b) of the Fish Resources Management Act
(FRMA). He was also ordered to pay a mandatory penalty of $1194 and costs of $105.70.
Department of Fisheries Regional Manager, Greg Finlay said he welcomed the Magistrate’s
ruling, which underlined the community’s concern about people who would take totally
protected fish.

“The Magistrate described Richmond’s actions as ‘a serious offence’,” Mr Finlay said.
“Not only were all 15 rock lobster the offender had caught undersize, but he also had 7 more
than the daily bag limit allows for.

“It’s a strong reminder to everyone that Fisheries and Marine Officers carry out random patrols
of fishing activity, even in small or isolated towns and coastal fishing spots.”
Mr Finlay said although this offence occurred during the rock lobster season, it was also
important to note the recreational season had now ended (it finished on 30 June) and it would not
reopen until 15 November.

Details on recreational fishing rules throughout Western Australia, including size, bag, boat and
possession limits, are available on the Department’s website at www.fish.wa.gov.au.

Recreational fishers take the right steps to ensure sustainability

Recfishwest today praised a range of announcements by Minister for Fisheries, Jon Ford, and the Department of Fisheries designed to ensure the sustainability of the fish resources of Western Australia.

"The decisions which have been announced have all been instigated by Recfishwest or regional Recreational Fishing Advisory Committees and clearly demonstrate the commitment of the recreational fishing sector to proactive management of the resources of this state," according to Frank Prokop, Executive Director of Recfishwest, the recreational fishing peak body.

The Minister for Fisheries has approved an increase in the legal minimum size limit for pink snapper in the Wilson Inlet from 280 mm to 410 mm effective from 6 July 2007.  This creates a uniform minimum legal size limit for pink snapper across the South Coast and West Coast Regions.

"The coordination of local support by Mr Robert Robinson and local member for Albany, Mr Peter Watson has been an important consideration in getting this regulation implemented." Mr Prokop said. 

Local support from the Peel regional Recreational Fishing Advisory Committee, with strong endorsement from Recfishwest, has seen the prohibition of drag netting in the Peel-Harvey estuary.

The reduction in prawn numbers and the by-catch of small crabs has been a key driver in the implementation of this management reform that has been widely canvassed and supported in the Mandurah region.

"Recfishwest is also pleased to see total protection for cobbler in the Swan-Canning catchment."  Mr Prokop said. "While recreational fishing is not the cause for the decline of cobbler, additional protection will increase the focus on managing the environmental factors which have greatly affected the cobbler and river prawn stocks in the Swan-Canning systems."

Recfishwest has been working with the Swan River Trust to develop research projects that will identify impacts and recovery strategies for river prawns and cobbler.

"While a 10 year closure seems a long time, it is necessary to allow the species to recover.  If cobbler do not show dramatic signs of recovery within 5 years, we will know that we must address environmental management in a much more robust way."

Finally, Recfishwest is pleased to see a fishing closure for the lakes on Heirisson Island.

Bream appear to aggregate in this area prior to spawning and this closure will help to maintain bream stocks in the Swan River. This closure has been strongly advocated for by bream fishermen themselves."

"These are more examples of where recreational fishers have proactively endorsed tighter restrictions on a fishery to ensure its sustainability in the future." Mr Prokop said.

Media Contact Frank Prokop, Executive Director - Recfishwest  9246 3366 or 0419 949 118

http://www.recfishwest.org.au/MediaReleaseRecFishersTakeRightSteps.htm

========

TerryF
=====
Beavering away in the background......

Recfishwest - looking after YOUR recreational fishing future. http://www.recfishwest.org.au/

You need Recfishwest to look after your recreational fishing interests. Who else has the time, the knowledge, the professional approach, the realistic alternatives, the willingness and the contacts?

Recfishwest needs YOUR support. We would really like you to become a member http://www.recfishwest.org.au/MembershipDet.htm , get involved and help us.

Tell us what you think and ask us to explain anything you don't agree with.

You are the ones who benefit when Recfishwest succeeds, or you will lose out when Recfishwest is ignored.

Wilson Inlet anglers advised of new pink snapper size limit

New fishing rules come into force this week to bring the minimum size for Wilson Inlet pink
snapper into line with the limit that applies elsewhere on the South and West Coasts.
Until now the minimum size limit for pink snapper in Wilson Inlet has been 28cm, however,
from Friday 6 July it will change to 41cm – the same minimum that applies everywhere else in
Western Australia, except for Shark Bay’s inner gulfs where a size limit of 50cm applies.
The new minimum size limit will apply to both recreational and commercial fishers.
Department of Fisheries Management Officer for the South West Bioregion Clinton Syers said
the changes would provide additional protection for juvenile fish to benefit pink snapper stocks
on the South Coast.

“The reproductive biology of pink snapper (Pagrus auratus) in Wilson Inlet does not differ
significantly from pink snapper populations in other South Coast estuaries where the minimum
size limit is 41 centimetres,” Mr Syers said.

“Adjusting the minimum size limit to match other areas will help sustainability of the Inlet’s
pink snapper stocks to ensure fish for the future. In favourable conditions pink snapper migrate
out of Wilson Inlet, to mature and form part of a broader oceanic breeding stock.”

Mr Syers said the South Coast Recreational Fishing Working Group was established in 2003 by
the Minister for Fisheries to undertake a comprehensive review of recreational fishing in the
region.

“The Working Group recommended the minimum legal size limit for Wilson Inlet pink snapper
be increased to 41cm, based on the biology of the species and the level of community support in
submissions,” he said.

“In the decision-making process the Minister took into account a wide range of advice, including
the outcomes of the South Coast Recreational Fishing Review, petitions and ongoing
correspondence from stakeholder groups, including recreational groups and the South Coast
Professional Fishermen’s Association. He ultimately decided that increasing the size limit would
be in the best interest to ensure the future sustainability of the stock.”

Department of Fisheries publications will be updated to reflect the change. More details on
recreational fishing rules for the South Coast Region are available on the Department of
Fisheries website at www.fish.wa.gov.au.

Out of season marron fishing case attracts $12,317 in fines

Three men have been fined a total of $12,317.10 for fishing for marron out of season.
39 year old Stuart James Mitchell and 38 year old Robert Everard Cooper both of Greenfields
and 32 year old Nathan Daniel Miller of San Remo all pleaded guilty to charges related to the
possession of marron during the closed season.

In the Mandurah Court this week (Wednesday 27 June), the magistrate ordered the men to each
pay fines of $1,000 for breaching sections of the Fish Resources Management Act, plus
mandatory additional penalties of $3,000 each for the 75 marron that were in their joint
possession at the time of the offences.

They were also ordered to pay court costs of $105.70 each and to forfeit the fishing gear they
were using. The marron haul was returned to the water on the night.

The court was told the men where apprehended by an Honorary Fisheries Officer on 23
December 2006, as the offenders were departing from South Dandalup Dam.

Department of Fisheries Mandurah-based Fisheries and Marine Officer Darren Schofield said,
not only were the offenders fishing illegally and in the wrong place, 60 of the marron the men
had caught were actually undersize.

“Any person who fishes out of season is breaching the community’s rules that everybody must
abide by, to ensure we have marron for the future,” Mr Schofield said.

“We also appreciate the support of the Honorary Fisheries Officer and Rangers from the Water
Corporation, who assisted in apprehending a number of offenders during the past summer.

“Fisheries officers are keenly aware that a few people attempt to go marron fishing illegally in
early summer, especially during the lead up to Christmas season, and we always keep a special
look out for this type of activity.”

South Dandalup Dam is a drinking water dam and all drinking water dams, which are managed
by the Water Corporation, are closed to any kind of fishing at all times.

Black Bream Protected in Heirisson Island Lakes

Recreational fishing changes for Swan River anglers  http://www.fish.wa.gov.au/docs/media/index.php?0000&mr=462

Date: Tuesday, 3 July 2007

New rules will soon prohibit recreational and commercial fishing for black bream in the Heirisson Island lakes.

Department of Fisheries Management Officer for the South West Bioregion Clinton Syers said both changes, that would take effect from Friday 6 July 2007, were designed to protect the species concerned.

A PROHIBITION ON FISHING FOR BLACK BREAM IN HEIRISSON ISLAND LAKES

Mr Syers said the vulnerability of black bream (Acanthopagrus butcheri) in the Heirisson Island lakes was the key factor leading to the permanent prohibition on fishing for the species there.

"Significant numbers of large black bream are known to enter the lakes on Heirisson Island from the Swan River during the spawning season and can and have been easily targeted," he said.

"To provide added protection to black bream, which are a popular species for recreational fishers, fishing in the lakes on Heirisson Island, downstream of the causeway, will be prohibited from Friday 6 July 2007.

"Elsewhere in the Swan River a bag limit of four black bream applies (minimum size limit of 25cm). Within the bag limit fishers can take no more than two black bream over 40cm."

TerryF
=====
Beavering away in the background......

Recfishwest - looking after YOUR recreational fishing future. http://www.recfishwest.org.au/

You need Recfishwest to look after your recreational fishing interests. Who else has the time, the knowledge, the professional approach, the realistic alternatives, the willingness and the contacts?

Recfishwest needs YOUR support. We would really like you to become a member http://www.recfishwest.org.au/MembershipDet.htm , get involved and help us.

Tell us what you think and ask us to explain anything you don't agree with.

You are the ones who benefit when Recfishwest succeeds, or you will lose out when Recfishwest is ignored.

Cobbler protected in Swan and Canning Rivers & Gidgees Banned

Recreational fishing changes for Swan River anglers  http://www.fish.wa.gov.au/docs/media/index.php?0000&mr=462

Date: Tuesday, 3 July 2007

New rules will soon prohibit recreational and commercial fishers taking cobbler from the Swan and Canning Rivers.

Department of Fisheries Management Officer for the South West Bioregion Clinton Syers said both changes, that would take effect from Friday 6 July 2007, were designed to protect the species concerned.

10 YEARS PROTECTION FOR COBBLER IN THE SWAN AND CANNING RIVERS

Cobbler stocks in the Swan and Canning have fallen significantly, primarily due to environmental changes causing loss of suitable breeding habitat for the species that generally nests in burrows," Mr Syers said.

"Recfishwest and the Recreational Fishing Advisory Committee (RFAC) have both recommended that cobbler (Cnidoglanis macrocephalus) be totally protected in the Swan and Canning Rivers.

"With the protection of cobbler for 10 years, recreational fishers are reminded that they will no longer be permitted to use gidgees or similar pointed instruments in both of the river systems.

"Commercial supplies of cobbler are available to Perth’s fish retailers from the South Coast Estuarine (interim) Managed Fishery (SCEMF), so there are no current concerns over the availability of supplies."

Around 40-50 tonnes of cobbler are caught in the SCEMF each year.

TerryF
=====
Beavering away in the background......

Recfishwest - looking after YOUR recreational fishing future. http://www.recfishwest.org.au/

You need Recfishwest to look after your recreational fishing interests. Who else has the time, the knowledge, the professional approach, the realistic alternatives, the willingness and the contacts?

Recfishwest needs YOUR support. We would really like you to become a member http://www.recfishwest.org.au/MembershipDet.htm , get involved and help us.

Tell us what you think and ask us to explain anything you don't agree with.

You are the ones who benefit when Recfishwest succeeds, or you will lose out when Recfishwest is ignored.

Drag nets to be prohibited in the Peel Harvey Estuary & Tributaries

Recreational fishers will be prohibited from using drag nets in the Peel Harvey Estuary and its tributaries from late next week due to the impact on juvenile crab stocks.

The use of such nets will not be allowed from Friday, July 6.

Fisheries Minister Jon Ford said there had been serious concerns over the use of hand trawl nets.

"The nets have been used by people fishing for prawns but the impact on other species in the estuary, particularly undersize crabs, has led to the prohibition," Mr Ford said.

"We have major concerns over the number of undersize crabs either taken this way or damaged by the nets."

The Minister said that at a time when everything was being done to reduce the pressure on blue swimmer crab stocks in the Peel Harvey Estuary, the prohibition on the use of hand trawl (drag) nets was a sensible measure to take.

"This prohibition on drag nets will also apply to the Peel Estuary’s tributaries, including the Serpentine and Murray Rivers. Fishers will still be able to use hand dip nets to target school and king prawns in the estuary," he said.

"Introducing these changes will ensure that future generations will continue to enjoy this iconic recreational activity."

Mandurah MLA David Templeman said the latest initiative was part of a suite of precautionary management measures designed to provide increased protection for blue swimmer crabs in the Peel Harvey Estuary, while a dedicated $600,000 crab research project was being undertaken.

"There will also be a two-month closure to recreational and commercial crab fishing in the Peel Harvey Estuary between September 1 and October 31, 2007," Mr Templeman said.

From November 1, 2007 daily bag limits for blue swimmer crabs will be reduced from 20 to 10 and the daily boat limit will be halved from 40 to 20 across the entire West Coast, to ensure sustainability of the stocks throughout the region.

Source:- Media Statement by Fisheries Minister

For those of you who dont already know(i didnt till a few hours ago) The harvey peel inlet is getting close to all drag netters permantently. As of July 7.

Dabbing only. Too many undersize crabs getting killed. Good on em i say, that fishery was getting worse and worse every year. About time they made some changes.

Minister signs in a new era for Abrolhos Islands fishers.

Historic lease agreements for the Abrolhos Islands have been signed today, giving rock lobster fishers security of tenure for their sustainable commercial operations.

Fisheries Minister Jon Ford was in Geraldton today to sign agreements with the presidents of the four newly established bodies corporate that cover North Island, Wallabi’s Group, Easter Group and Southern Group.

“The leases give these bodies corporate a 21-year lease, with an option of a further
21 years,” Mr Ford said.

“This new arrangement will also allow for a higher degree of self-management.”

The Minister said there had been extensive consultation with rock lobster fishers to reach agreement on the new leases and the arrangements would be reviewed in two years to finetune the leases if necessary.

Geraldton MLA Shane Hill said the new leases were important in demonstrating commitment to the industry.

“It also provides recognition of the role the islands have played in providing viable businesses for the rock lobster fishers who are based there for part of each year,”
Mr Hill said.

A bodies corporate president will represent each of the four Abrolhos Islands’ groups. Their functions will be controlled through the adoption of bodies corporate constitutions.

It is envisaged that their representatives will work closely with the Abrolhos Islands Management Advisory Committee and the Department of Fisheries in developing relevant management policies for the Abrolhos Islands estate.

Collaboration between Government and industry reaps giant reward.

Environment Minister David Templeman said the successful disentanglement of a humpback whale yesterday was exciting evidence the fishing industry was embracing the Department of Environment and Conservation's new world-first training DVD.

Mr Templeman said the skipper and crew of the fishing boat that first spotted the imperilled whale yesterday morning had viewed the training DVD and acted swiftly and appropriately, ensuring a successful rescue.

"The DVD explains what people should do if they spot an entangled whale and outlines the West Coast Rock Lobster Managed Fishery’s (WCRLMF) code of practice intended to prevent entanglements in the first place,” he said.

"This rescue is tangible evidence of the positive effect this DVD is having out there and I pay tribute to the skipper and his crew, and to our accomplished disentanglement team, for their actions in saving this whale.

The department’s whale disentanglement team responded to the report of an entangled whale around 14 nautical miles off Two Rocks.

The animal was a 9 to 10 metre young humpback weighing around 15 tonnes that was on its northern migration. Craypot lines were entangled around its pectoral fin and tail.

"Within an hour and a half the team managed to free the whale," the Minister said.

"I am told the conditions out there yesterday were particularly nasty, making the successful rescue all the more gratifying."

The 15-minute DVD was produced by the department and in collaboration with the Western Rock Lobster Council and the WCRLMF to help reduce the number of whale entanglements in the rock lobster fishing season.

It is believed to be a world first and is already attracting interest from other conservation agencies in Australia as well as in the United States, New Zealand and South Africa.

The department's specially trained whale disentanglement team has responded to incidents involving 44 whales in the past 15 years. It is equipped with a small fleet of zodiacs and accompanying safety gear to provide a rapid, round-the-clock response to whale entanglements around the State.

"This is yet another way the Carpenter Government is acting now to protect our unique environment for future generations," Mr Templeman said.

Nominations called for State coastal awards for excellence.

Nominations for the 2007 Western Australian Coastal Awards for Excellence are now open.

Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said the awards recognise individuals and organisations that have played an active role in the management and protection of the coast and marine life in WA.

“The Western Australian Coastal Awards for Excellence are our way of saying thank you to local communities, coastal managers and individuals for their commitment and hard work in planning and managing the State’s coastal areas,” Ms MacTiernan said.

“Without these efforts many important coastal rehabilitation and marine conservation projects may never have begun.

“The winners will be announced as part of the Western Australian State Coastal Conference to be held in Denmark in November 2007.

“By incorporating the awards as part of the State Coastal Conference it means recipients are recognised in front of their peers and industry for their work in improving our coastal environment.”

The awards are a biennial event and part of the Coastwest program coordinated by the Department for Planning and Infrastructure and Western Australian Planning Commission.

The awards are open to community groups, individual, organisations, government agencies and local governments within Western Australia.

Award categories in 2007 are:
• Outstanding coastal leadership;
• Outstanding community group effort;
• Outstanding partnership in coastal planning and/or management;
• Outstanding indigenous coastal achievement;
• Local government excellence in coastal planning and/or management;
• Outstanding student research; and
• Outstanding coastal development, innovation and/or design.

Nomination forms and information on the 2005 winners can be found on the WAPC website http://www.wapc.wa.gov.au or by calling the Department for Planning and Infrastructure on (08) 9264 7777.

Nominations for the awards close on Friday, August 10 2007.

Recreational Catch Limit Changes Coming.

Anglers face much tougher limits on recreational fish - report front page of today's West Australian.

Fisheries Minister Jon Ford has revealed recreational fishermen face big changes within 12 months to the way their sport operates, telling Parliament that he was waiting for advice on what sort of cut in the permitted catch was appropriate, but reductions in the take of four popular species were a priority.

"What we think we probably need is an overall adjustment on a number of species of around about 50 per cent," he said.

Mr Ford said that he would soon release a discussion paper suggesting different management plans and would invite both the recreational and commercial sectors to contribute to the review.

Dhufish, pink snapper, breaksea cod and baldchin groper are expected to be the focus of the tighter restrictions, while western blue groper, queen snapper, red snapper, norwest snapper and red emperor will also be targeted.

Predictable comments from some recreational fishermen on Page 7.

Watch this space.

Believe this will be a hot topic on 720 ABC and 882 6PR some time Friday......

TerryF
=====

Beavering away in the background......

Recfishwest - looking after YOUR recreational fishing future. http://www.recfishwest.org.au/

You need Recfishwest to look after your recreational fishing interests. Who else has the time, the knowledge, the professional approach, the realistic alternatives, the willingness and the contacts?

Recfishwest needs YOUR support. We would really like you to become a member http://www.recfishwest.org.au/MembershipDet.htm , get involved and help us.

Tell us what you think and ask us to explain anything you don't agree with.

You are the ones who benefit when Recfishwest succeeds, or you will lose out when Recfishwest is ignored.

Wetline Review Outcomes Welcomed.

After nearly 10 years of negotiating, the wetline review has finally been announced and it contains much good news for the recreational sector.

Commercial boats without a wetline entitlement will not be able to have fishing gear or bony fish (sharks, octopus which are caught in rock lobster pots will be ok) on board their boat (except as identified bait species).

There will be a small dedicated wetline fleet and this will make tracking product much easier, reducing the black market as well.

All in all a long time coming but a very good outcome.

Here is what Recfishwest is saying in a media release.

Recfishwest Welcomes Wetline Review

Recfishwest praised the announcement by Minister for Fisheries, Jon Ford, on the management arrangements for the West Coast and Gascoyne wetline fishery.

The new arrangements will bring the wetline fishery under management controls. It will foster a small, professional and profitable commercial finfish fishery and give greater responsibility to the recreational fishing sector to better manage their activities.

Executive Director of Recfishwest, Frank Prokop was extremely pleased with the decision. "This is a great day for fisheries management in Western Australia and for Recfishwest. We have been working on an equitable management plan for the wetline fishery in this state for nearly 10 full years and it has finally come to fruition."

"Recfishwest is especially pleased with the controls on the take of fish by boats that do not qualify for a specific wetline entitlement. Not allowing the take of any fish, or the carrying of any gear for taking finfish will allow for more effective compliance."

"While some people are concentrating on a not yet realised price increase for local seafood, Recfishwest believes that there will be many benefits, including fish of a consistently higher quality from a dedicated wetline fishery and a reduction in the black market." Mr Prokop said.

The Chairman of Recfishwest Des Wood also welcomed the management arrangements. "The Minister’s decision represents a significant step forward in sustainable fisheries management. The enormous efforts of Recfishwest have been proven to be worthwhile in what we believe is a visionary and equitable decision."

Recfishwest believes that recreational fishers will need to adopt even greater responsibility for managing the recreational share of the resource in the future.

This decision paves the way for a more formal allocation of fish stocks to the recreational fishery through the integrated fisheries process.

"Recfishwest is looking forward to the challenge of managing our recreational fisheries to ensure that a quality experience is maintained. This will have enormous benefits to the economy and lifestyle of Western Australians as we are already world leaders in this area." Mr Prokop said.

Recreational fishers have been the driving force behind a number of successful management measures for the protection of fish stocks such as the Cockburn Sound and Shark Bay pink snapper closures and anticipated protection of blue groper at Rottnest.

"Continuing to manage important species such as dhufish and snapper is the next challenge!" Mr Prokop concluded.

Media Contact:- Frank Prokop, Executive Director - Recfishwest 9246 3366 or 0419 949 118.

End of Media Statement
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Some links:- The decisions by Hon Jon Ford, Minister for Fisheries are in Fisheries Management Paper 224 http://www.fish.wa.gov.au/docs/mp/mp224/index.php?0602

Recfishwest Media Statement http://www.recfishwest.org.au/MediaStateWetlineReviewAnnounced.htm

TerryF
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Beavering away in the background......

Recfishwest - looking after YOUR recreational fishing future. http://www.recfishwest.org.au/

You need Recfishwest to look after your recreational fishing interests. Who else has the time, the knowledge, the professional approach, the realistic alternatives, the willingness and the contacts?

Recfishwest needs YOUR support. We would really like you to become a member, get involved and help us.

Tell us what you think and ask us to explain anything you don't agree with.

You are the ones who benefit when Recfishwest succeeds, or you will lose out when Recfishwest is ignored.

Labor MP could face fine over abalone
22nd May 2007, 13:45 WST

A Labor MP could face fines of up to $10,000 after he was allegedly caught with an oversize haul of abalone outside the West Australian season.

Collie-Wellington MP Mick Murray is expected to be charged this week after fisheries officers found him with more than twice the legal bag limit of green and brown lip abalone last Friday near Augusta in the south-west.

Department of Fisheries regional services manager John Looby said Mr Murray was expected to be charged by summons.

State opposition leader Paul Omodei says Mr Murray should be sacked.

But Premier Alan Carpenter says while Mr Murray should face the full force of the law, he will not sack the errant MP.

"Mick Murray has behaved in a ridiculously careless way," Mr Carpenter said.

"It warrants a penalty under the law absolutely, but it does not warrant dismissal."

Under WA law Mr Murray could face a $5,000 maximum penalty for fishing abalone out of season and $5,000 for being over the bag limit.

Penalties also include payment of 10 times the prescribed value of the abalone over the prescribed limit of five per person.

Mr Murray was allegedly caught with 12 abalone.

A fisheries spokesman said abalone were valued at $90/kg and the prescribed value of seven abalone would be about $200.

The premier said Mr Murray was remorseful and had told him he was unaware of the regulations.

"Mick Murray should have been aware, there's no excuse for it," he said.

"He cites changes of the dates and carelessness.

"What he has done is inexcusable, unacceptable and sets a bad example."

Mr Murray served as a parliamentary secretary to the WA fisheries minister Jon Ford during the time the laws were changed to limit the abalone season and bag limit, but in a local government and regional development capacity.

Source : The West Australian

Management plans to protect pristine marine biodiversity.

Environment Minister David Templeman today released management plans to protect some of the State's most pristine marine reserves.

The final management plans are the result of extensive community consultation and are designed to preserve and protect the Rowley Shoals Marine Park, Montebello/Barrow Islands Marine Conservation Reserves and the surrounding Barrow Island Marine Management Area.

"The Montebello/Barrow Islands are some of the most beautiful and unique marine environments anywhere along the Western Australian coast and have significant recreational and economic value,” Mr Templeman said.

"And the Rowley Shoals feature a world-renowned oceanic reef system and are home to a stunning array of tropical marine biodiversity which is unsurpassed anywhere in the State."

The State Government increased the area of the Rowley Shoals Marine Park to approximately 87,500ha - four times its original size - in 2004.

It lies 200km west north-west of Broome and includes the Imperieuse and Clerke Reefs and two sandy islands - Cunningham and Bedwell.

"Following the release of the final management plan, the State Government will be establishing a zoning scheme that includes two sanctuary zones covering about 24 per cent of the park, three recreation zones covering 19 per cent of the park and general use zones covering about 57 per cent of the park," the Minister said.

"This zoning scheme will protect the rich marine biodiversity of the area while still providing for a range of sustainable recreational, commercial, educational and scientific uses.

"The Rowley Shoals rise dramatically from depths of 230 to 500m above the sea floor and offer some of the most spectacular underwater scenery found anywhere in Australia. It is a world-renowned dive site with pristine coral, giant clams and other shellfish and large and plentiful reef fish.

"Because of its position at the edge of one of the widest continental shelves in the world, the oceanic waters surrounding these atolls are crystal clear and ideal for luxuriant coral growth.
"When you consider that most coral reefs throughout the world are being severely degraded by human activities, the Rowley Shoals - because of their condition and isolation - provide one of the best chances to conserve a pristine coral reef system."

Under the new management plan, for the Montebello/Barrow Island Marine conservation reserve, all of the Barrow Island Marine Park and about 49 per cent of the Montebello Islands Marine Park would be included in sanctuary zones.

"The islands are a significant breeding ground and nesting area for marine turtles and the waters surrounding the islands support important coral reefs, distinctive mangrove communities and a stunningly diverse tropical fauna,” Mr Templeman said.

"The area is also part of the State's most productive petroleum region, produces high quality pearls and provides a range of excellent tourism and recreational opportunities.

"While there will be sanctuary zones, large areas of the reserves remain open to recreational and commercial fishing with more than half of the Montebello Islands Marine Park and more than 95 per cent of the Barrow Island Marine Management area available for these pursuits.”

The State Government has significantly expanded the system of marine conservation reserves with indicative management plans released for proposed marine conservation reserves in the Dampier Archipelago/Cape Preston area, around the south-west Capes and Walpole and Nornalup inlets, in the later part of 2006.

The State Government intends to formally establish these new marine parks and reserves by the end of 2007.

"The Carpenter Government is making decisions for the future and ensuring that our unique environment is protected and preserved for generations to come," the Minister said.

Copies of the management plans will be available from Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) offices in Kensington, Fremantle, Broome and Kununurra and on DEC’s NatureBase website from Tuesday morning at http://www.naturebase.net.

Note: DVD’s featuring underwater vision and still images of marine life are available on request.