Cameras have documented a recent shellfish enforcement operation by fisheries officers at Altona Pier in Melbourne, raising concerns about job security in the sector. Five individuals were detained after being found in possession of abalone, exceeding the legal limit by six times, along with scuba gear and mobile phones.
This incident follows a similar crackdown just two days prior at Ricketts Point, where locals reported another poaching case. In Victoria, fishing regulations stipulate that only five abalone can be taken per person each day, highlighting the seriousness of illegal fishing activities.
Fishermen have expressed alarm over the state’s proposal to dismiss 29 fisheries officers, arguing this could jeopardise the integrity of Victoria’s protected marine sanctuaries, leading to increased illegal fishing. Karen Batt, secretary of CPSU Victoria, warned that such cuts could endanger the state’s multibillion-dollar commercial fishing industry.
Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos confirmed ongoing discussions regarding workforce reductions, but opposition members have voiced concerns that cutting fisheries officers contradicts current fishing trends, which are reportedly increasing. Opposition spokesperson David Southwick stated that this is not the appropriate time to reduce enforcement presence when fishing activity is soaring in the state.
The boat owner involved in the latest incident is expected to face charges in due course, as authorities continue to tackle the issue of illegal fishing in the region.