South Australian Fishers Reminded of Penalties Following Rock Lobster Seizure

IMAGE: PIRSA

South Australian fishers are being reminded of the serious consequences of failing to comply with fishing rules and regulations, following the seizure of more than 100 Southern Rock Lobsters earlier this month.

The seizure occurred near Port MacDonnell in the state’s South East, when Fisheries Officers from the Department of Primary Industries and Regions intercepted a Mount Gambier man, with assistance from South Australia Police.

During the interception, officers located a significant quantity of Southern Rock Lobsters and identified a number of alleged offences, including the use of an excessive number of lobster pots.

Further investigations, including the execution of a residential search warrant, uncovered an additional 111 Southern Rock Lobsters, many of which were undersize.

Southern Rock Lobster is classified as a priority species in South Australia and is subject to strict size, bag and possession limits under the Fisheries Management Act.

Authorities say the use of non-compliant fishing gear and the taking of protected species are treated as serious offences, with penalties applying.

Investigations into the matter are continuing, and the public is being encouraged to report suspicious fishing activity to Fishwatch on 1800 065 522.