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Commercial fishing company found guilty of licence breach

Thursday 18 March, 2010

Commercial fishers have been issued a stark reminder of the consequences of non-compliance after a local company was found guilty of breaching its licence conditions in the Kadina Magistrates Court this week.

Barnes Seafood Pty Ltd, was convicted and fined $20,000 and company director Gary Barnes fined a further $5000 for allowing an unauthorized person to be in charge of the company’s blue crab pot vessel.

The company pled guilty to five counts of fishing under the control of an unregistered master.

PIRSA Fisheries Regional Manager Central North, Paul Faithow, explained that under Fisheries Management Act, 2007, commercial licence holders must nominate specific people as masters, who are then authorized to be in control of (or skipper) any fishing vessel under that licence.

“This case stems from a routine patrol by Fisheries officers at the Wallaroo Marina on 8 December last year,” he said.

“Our officers conducted a routine inspection aboard a Barnes Seafood blue crab pot vessel and found that the person in charge of the vessel at the time was not a nominated master on the licence.

“This case reinforces just how important it is that commercial licensees comply with the strict conditions specified in their licences.

“When licence holders nominate masters on their licence, those individuals nominated undergo a history check to determine whether they are fit and proper to be registered under the Act.

“Having nominated masters undergo such stringent history checks, is vital in preserving the integrity of our commercial fisheries.”

Anyone can report illegal fishing activity through the 24 hour FISHWATCH number on 1800 065 522.  Callers can choose to remain anonymous.