Media release
The Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) has again reinforced that illegal fishing activity will not be tolerated with a Western Australian Commonwealth fishing vessel skipper convicted and fined $10 000 in the Perth Magistrates Court on Monday.
Mr Paul Harrison of Wickham, was an authorised agent of Seafresh Pty Ltd and skipper of the fishing vessel Ocean Raider. He was found guilty of failing to submit accurate and fully recorded fishing logbooks to AFMA. He was also found guilty of failing to abide by habitat protection ‘move on’ provisions within the North West Slope Fishery located off Exmouth, Western Australia.
In handing down the penalties, His Honour, Magistrate Bayly recognised the seriousness of the offences, stating he, ‘did not consider the offence to be trivial and the fines took into account the need for deterrence and ensuring adequately punished’.
His Honour also found that, ‘general deterrence was necessary as it was important to ensure that our fisheries are well regulated, such that they remain for future generations’.
AFMA General Manger of Fisheries Operations, Mr Peter Venslovas said that the fines imposed reflected the seriousness of illegal fishing.
“Mr Harrison has demonstrated blatant disregard to the very rules in place to protect his livelihood and as a result he has been punished,” said Mr Venslovas.
“We have rules in place for a reason – to not only ensure the long term sustainability of our natural resources are protected for future generations of Australians, but to secure a viable Australian commercial fishing industry.
“The actions committed by the Mr Harrison undermine his industry and the fisheries management measures in place.”
AFMA takes illegal fishing seriously. If you suspect illegal fishing or black-market fish supply to be occurring in your area please contact 1800 CRIMFISH (1800 274 634).
AFMA media enquiries: media@afma.gov.au or 0437 869 860