Media release
Warrnambool fisherman Darren Laidlaw has been convicted and fined $2500 for providing false and misleading information in his fishing logbook.
Appearing in the Portland Magistrates Court last week, Mr Laidlaw, master of the fishing vessel Game Reason, was charged for attempting to land fish without completing the required paperwork and not providing accurate and verified details of species and weights of fish caught and landed.
AFMA’s General Manager of Fisheries Operations, Peter Venslovas welcomed the news stating illegal fishing will not be tolerated.
“Fishers who fail to complete logbooks and provide incorrect information are lying to the Australian public and robbing from our marine environment,” Mr Venslovas said.
“AFMA’s has strict rules and regulations in place to keep our fisheries healthy for current and future generations to enjoy.”
Mr Laidlaw was detected and intercepted by officers from Fisheries Victoria during an undercover surveillance operation. Upon observing the Commonwealth fishing boat enter port, the officers intercepted the vessel and subsequently discovered the failure by Mr Laidlaw to record and declare his catch. Working with and on the advice of AFMA, the officers seized the 370 kg catch valued at approximately $1650.
Mr Venslovas said the recent conviction was another example of how Australian and state and territory government agencies are working together to combat illegal fishing.
“Our collaborative approach with our state and territory counterparts, like Fisheries Victoria, is helping to ensure the sustainability of Commonwealth fisheries,” Mr Venslovas said.
“If you do the wrong thing, you will be caught.”
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).
More information about Commonwealth fisheries management, including combatting illegal fishing, can be found at afma.gov.au.