In this section:

Fisher has licence suspended

Monday, 1 June 2009

A commercial fisher from Whyalla pleaded guilty in the Port Lincoln Magistrates Court last week to a charge of interfering with a lawful fishing activity. 

As a result, the fisher was convicted of the offence, fined a total of $850 with costs, and disqualified from holding or obtaining an authorisation in the form of a licence under the Fisheries Management Act until further order. 

It was alleged that the commercial fisher had cut the anchor line of another commercial fisher whilst they were anchored and fishing at Murninnie between Whyalla and Cowell in May 2008.

This severed line caused the commercial fisher to return to shore to retrieve another anchor before he could continue his fishing activity for the day. 

 “This type of offence was viewed seriously and could have attracted fines of up to $5,000 in addition to suspension or disqualification from engaging in a fishing activity,” PIRSA Fisheries executive director, Will Zacharin said,

The man was the first commercial fisher to have his licence suspended under the recently introduced Fisheries Management Act 2007.

“One of the principal objectives of the Fisheries Management Act 2007 is to allow for equitable use of aquatic resources by all users.  Fishers who follow the rules and fish lawfully are entitled to do so without interference or obstruction from others,” Mr Zacharin said.

Anyone can report illegal fishing activity through the 24 hour FISHWATCH number on 1800 065 522.  Callers can speak to a Fisheries Officer and can choose to remain anonymous.