Joint media release: Australian Border Force and Australian Fisheries Management Authority
Maritime Border Command (MBC) within the Australian Border Force (ABF) and the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) have apprehended a foreign fishing vessel, believed to be Vietnamese, on Saturday (3 September), suspected of illegally fishing in Australian waters. The vessel was intercepted near Dianne Bank, approximately 250 nautical miles to the northeast of Cairns, and 136 nautical miles within Australia’s fishing zone.
Officers from the Australian Border Force Cutter Storm Bay intercepted the fishing vessel and conducted an at-sea boarding and inspection. During the inspection, officers found dive equipment and approximately five tonnes of Bech-de-mer (sea cucumber).
Illegal foreign fishing vessel apprehended in Australian Fishing Zone Saturday 3 September
The vessel and its 16 crew were brought into Cairns today (5 September), where further investigations will be undertaken by AFMA.
AFMA General Manager Fisheries Operations, Peter Venslovas, said Australia’s well-managed fisheries were tempting for those seeking to do the wrong thing.
“Our strict rules and regulations mean that we have a healthy marine environment and sustainable fisheries,” Mr Venslovas said.
“However, fishing without permission undermines the very rules and regulations in place to ensure that Australians can continue to enjoy a healthy supply of seafood for many generations to come.
“This interception demonstrates our whole-of-government commitment to illegal fishing and sends a strong signal to those looking to plunder our resources.”
Commander MBC, Rear Admiral Peter Laver said over fishing in our waters threatens our commercial fishing interests and disturbs the delicate balance of our natural maritime ecosystems.
“MBC maintains surveillance and response capabilities throughout the Australian Fishing Zone to ensure natural resources and our unique biodiversity are protected,” Rear Admiral Laver said.
“In the last financial year we apprehended 20 illegal foreign fishing vessels and those who look to fish illegally in Australian waters should be on notice that the ABF, in partnership with AFMA, will continue to combat this illegal trade and will detect and prosecute those involved.”
More information on how Australia is working to combat illegal fishing can be found at afma.gov.au.
ENDS
Media contacts:
AFMA: 0437 869 860
Immigration and Border Protection: 02 6264 2244