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Major fisheries bust near remote Cooper Creek

Monday, 22 June, 2009

Two Victorian men have been reported for committing multiple offences after being intercepted illegal fishing in remote outback South Australia last week.

The men, aged 64 and 35 from Mildura, were reported by PIRSA Fisheries compliance officers last Wednesday, in the Coongie Lake National Park, north west of Innamincka.

An extensive amount of equipment was seized, including a boat, trailer, outboard motor, nine bags of gillnets, 63 yabbie nets, a quantity of live yabbies, seven golden perch, waders and camouflage material.

Commercial fishing or use of any nets is not permitted in the Cooper Creek or Coongie Lake National Park.

PIRSA Fisheries Executive Director Will Zacharin said the men were located in a joint operation involving PIRSA Fisheries, SA National Parks and Wildlife Service and NSW DPI Fisheries.

“It is a great result because it shows that even in the most remote of locations, there is always someone watching,” he said.

“NPWS officers also have fisheries authorisations, which means they can enforce the Fisheries Management Act and can act on illegal fishing activity in national parks and remote areas of the State.

“Some people conducting illegal fishing activity in remote areas of the State may think they can operate undetected, but it is important that they realise a lot of eyes are watching.”

Fisheries Minister Paul Caica said it was important anyone with information on illegal fishing activities reports it to authorities.

“This particular area of the State is a pristine environment and when the waterholes are running there are large numbers of native freshwater fish species. They should be left there as part of this spectacular national park environment,” he said.

“It is important that people realise that illegal fishing will not go undetected and that we will conduct operations in remote areas to protect our natural resources.”

Anyone can report illegal fishing through the 24 hour Fishwatch number on 1800 065 522. Callers will speak to a Fisheries officer and can choose to remain anonymous.